Battery Drop Off and Recycling

Why recycle batteries?

80% of the batteries used by Australians are single use batteries. Although recyclable, 97% of them or 8,000 tonnes end up in landfill each year. Batteries can be a health hazard if not handled carefully as they contain toxic substances such as cadmium, mercury and lead. Due to their flammable, corrosive and toxic nature, batteries should not be disposed of in your kerbside or recycling bins. Instead, used batteries should be dropped off at authorized battery recycling collection points.

• Lead acid batteries
  Typically used to power cars and boats, lead acid batteries contain lead, lead compounds and sulfuric acid which are classified as hazardous waste under the Hazardous Waste Act 1989. If sent to landfill, these substances will endanger humans and the environment. 98% of lead acid batteries can be recovered and made into new products, making them valuable e-waste to be recycled.
• Single use batteries
  These are commonly known as household batteries and are used to power toys, clocks, smoke alarms and remote controls. Single use batteries contain carbon zinc, manganese, lithium and mercury – if exposed to moisture, they can erode and cause fire hazards as well as mercury contamination if sent to landfill. If recycled, mercury and other materials such as zinc and silver can be recovered and made into new products.
• Rechargeable batteries
  Rechargeable batteries are often found in mobile phones, shavers, cameras and other electronics. Though common, these batteries contain metals such as cadmium which can contaminate the soil and surrounding areas if sent to landfill.

Check with your local council or waste management partner to find your nearest old battery collection and disposal points.