The rapidly expanding market for batteries — both disposable and rechargeable — has shadowed the explosive growth in the use of personal electronic devices. In 1996, a Federal law was passed mandating and promoting the efficient and cost-effective collection and recycling (or other proper disposal) of all types of batteries.

Despite the legislation, the details of how to accomplish effective recycling are still being worked out by federal officials and manufacturers. In the meantime, there are some battery recycling programs (see below) and students and school officials can help keep batteries out of the waste stream by implementing these programs at school.


Resources:

The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation is a non-profit, public service organization created to promote the recycling of portable rechargeable batteries and cellular phones.

Earth 911 centralizes information and resources into a single user-friendly, neutral and non-governmental network. The site provides a fast and convenient way for consumers (including students) to find local services for recycling almost everything, including batteries.