How to Dispose of Battery Backup Units

In most of the U.S., non-rechargeable batteries are not classified as hazardous waste and should be placed in the trash. However, all the rechargeable batteries that provide backup for other needs are hazardous waste and need to be disposed of properly. Making our environment safer dictates that you use rechargeable, which can be charged repeatedly, reused and then recycled.

If you have no idea where you can dispose of hazardous materials in your area try checking out "earth 911" by typing it in your search bar. It will ask you for the type of hazardous material (batteries, aluminum, paint, etc) and your city or zip. Then it will give you the local places for collection. Plus, it is a neat site to explore and has tons of information regarding re-cycling and earth care.

To get rid of those battery backup units:

• Package up your old or non-working batteries in containers such as cardboard or paper to prevent any acid from getting on clothing, you or your car.


• Locate the nearest Staples store (they collect for recycling) or hazardous waste disposal agency. Staples can be found on the Internet with a search and then find the store nearest you. The phone book will help you find the nearest hazardous waste collection center.


• Call the Staples or collection agency to determine the hours and make certain they do take the battery backup units you have.


• Deliver the old or non-working batteries to the location.

In the future, everyone should consider what happens when hazardous materials end up in our landfills. Please take a minute to consider that two AA Ni-Cad rechargeable batteries can replace up to 600 single-use batteries. That is quite a savings and they can be recycled when they wear out.