Answer: In the mid-1990s regulations were enacted that significantly reduced or eliminated the amount of mercury used in the production of alkaline batteries. As a result, alkaline household batteries are safe for disposal with typical household trash.
Rechargeable and button batteries are not safe for disposal in a landfill and should always be recycled. Common chemistries of rechargeable and button batteries include Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), and Small Sealed Lead (Pb).
Only rechargeable, lead acid and button batteries dropped off at Tox-Away Days are recycled. Alkaline batteries brought to Tox-Away Day are sent to a landfill for disposal.
Interstate Battery and Batteries Plus Bulbs, both located in Avon, will accept all types of batteries for recycling. Some fees may apply.
Button and rechargeable batteries are accepted at many local retailers through a program sponsored by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation, Call 2 Recycle.
