How to Safely Dispose of Batteries

How to Safely Dispose of Batteries

Aug 13, 2024

Batteries Begone: How to Safely Dispose of Batteries in Australia

Batteries power our lives. From the TV remote to the latest gadget, we rely on these little energy packs every day. But what happens when they run out of power? Tossing them carelessly can lead to all sorts of trouble, so let's talk about how to dispose of them safely.

Why Tossing Batteries in the Bin is a Big No-No

Batteries might look harmless, but inside, they’ve got some potentially dangerous chemicals like lead, cadmium, mercury, and lithium. If these chemicals leak out (and they will, if you just chuck them in the trash), they can cause all sorts of environmental messes. We’re talking contaminated soil, polluted water, and even fires in landfills and collection trucks. There are an estimated 5.7 MILLION used batteries in households across Australia with the potential to cause serious harm.

Batteries can be Dangerous to Children

Used batteries, especially small button batteries, are a safety hazard for children. If children ingest or insert button batteries they can cause severe internal burns.

In Australia, an estimated 20 children PER WEEK present to a hospital emergency department suspected of having ingested or inserted a button battery. Children aged 0-5 years are particularly vulnerable. Keep new and used batteries out of reach of young children, and be sure to tape them using clear sticky tape before you take them for recycling.

How to Safely Recycle Batteries in Australia

Before you send your batteries off, take a few simple steps to keep things safe:

Tape It Up

Cover the terminals with clear sticky tape to avoid any nasty sparks or short circuits.

Store Safely

Store taped batteries in a fire-resistant container like a glass jar. To avoid pressure build-up, keep the lid loose so air can escape.

Take Them To Be Recycled

Take them to your nearest battery recycling drop-off point (there's probably one at your local supermarket).

Credit to B-Cycle.

No Bonfires, Please: Burning batteries is dangerous and harmful to the environment. Recycling is the way to go!

Different Battery Types

Not all batteries are created equal, and neither are their disposal methods.

Single-Use Batteries (Alkaline, Zinc-Carbon)

• What to Do: These aren’t as toxic as some other types, but don’t get too comfortable—recycling is still the way to go.

Rechargeable Batteries (Lithium-Ion, Nickel-Cadmium, Nickel-Metal Hydride)

• What to Do: These guys are rechargeable for a reason, but when they finally bite the dust, take them to be recycled.

Button Cell Batteries

• What to Do: These tiny batteries (like the ones in your watch or hearing aid) may be small, but they’re packed with dangerous chemicals like mercury. Drop them off at supermarkets or pharmacies with dedicated recycling bins.

Car Batteries (Lead-Acid)

• What to Do: Car batteries are toxic, so don’t even think about tossing them in the bin. Instead, take them to your local automotive retailer or a recycling center. Some places might even pick them up from your doorstep!

Where to Drop Your Used Batteries in Australia

Recycling batteries in Australia is easier than you might think. Here’s where to go:

B-Cycle: This handy initiative partners with big names like Woolworths and Bunnings to set up battery drop-off bins. Just pop in, drop off, and feel good about saving the planet.

Local Council Programs: Many councils offer battery recycling services—either through household waste facilities or special events. Check with your local council to see what’s available.

Our Commitment: Battery Disposal Bins at Work

At WM Waste, we're all about making it easier for everyone to do the right thing, which is why we’ve placed battery disposal bins from Ecobin in our workplace (like the one pictured below). Our staff can now easily drop off their used batteries at work, knowing they’ll be recycled properly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference, and we encourage you to consider doing the same in your home or workplace.

Setting up a battery disposal bin at home or in the office is a simple yet effective way to ensure those old batteries don’t end up in landfill. Just find a sturdy fire-resistant container, label it clearly, and let everyone know where they can drop their used batteries. When the bin’s full, take it to your nearest recycling point.

Final Thoughts

Remember to NEVER throw batteries into general waste, recycling or skip bins. Any battery that holds a charge can spark and cause a fire. Lithium batteries are particularly dangerous. If crushed inside a collection truck they can self-ignite and cause explosive fires.

If you are hiring a skip bin from WM Waste, ensure you remove batteries from household items like children's toys or power tools before you put them in the bin. When you hire a bin, make sure you check what can be disposed of in the skip bin.

Disposing of batteries safely doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little bit of effort, you can help keep Australia’s environment safe and sound.

With credit to B-Cycle for some of the images and statistics featured on this webpage.