Information on Recycling Batteries

There are five types of batteries. Each has different methods recycling:

Lead-Acid/Automotive Batteries:
Lead batteries are this country's principal source of power for automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, boats, forklifts, golf carts, lawn and garden tractors, and wheelchairs. These heavy, rectangular batteries contain sulfuric acid, which can burn skin on contact.

For information on lead acid/automotive batteries click here

Alkaline Batteries (AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt):
Alkaline batteries standard household batteries. They are used in products from walkmans and clocks, to smoke detectors and remote controls. Since 1994, most types contain no added mercury or only contain trace amounts. These batteries are marked "no added mercury" or may be marked with a green tree logo.¹

For information on alkaline batteries click here.

¹Source: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Button Batteries:
These batteries are named for being small round and silver-colored. They are most commonly found in watches and hearing aids. Many button batteries contain mercury or silver oxide, both metals that are toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested.

For information button batteries click here.

Nickel-Cadmium Rechargeable Batteries (NiCads):
These batteries are marked “Rechargeable” and are found in many products including: cell phones, cordless phones, laptops, power tools, camcorders and remote controlled toys. NiCads contain cadmium, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested.

For information on NiCad batteries click here.

Lithium Batteries (AA, C, 9 volt and button):
These batteries are mainly used in computers, camcorders, laptops and cameras. Lithium ignites when in contact with water and has been notorious for causing serious fires.

For information on lithium batteries click here.