Image: GRS
Whether in the smartphone or in the kitchen scales: Batteries supply countless devices with electricity. But even the best batteries will eventually reach the end of their lifespan. After a certain number of charging cycles, the capacity decreases. In this case, you should ensure that the used batteries are recycled properly. There are a few things you need to consider.
1. Batteries do not belong in the garbage can
No matter how you ultimately get rid of your old batteries: Under no circumstances should you throw them in the household garbage can. Since batteries and accumulators contain harmful substances such as mercury or lead, proper disposal is important in order to protect the environment. In addition, correct disposal ensures that reusable raw materials are recycled.
2. Store rechargeable batteries and batteries until disposal
As a rule, rechargeable batteries and empty batteries should only be disposed of after a while . Until then, be sure to keep them safe. It is best to pack them in a sealed plastic bag . This ensures that any leaking batteries do not cause any damage. If the batteries or rechargeable batteries have leaked, be sure not to touch them with your bare hands . The escaping acid can cause injuries. Use gloves instead. You should also cover the exposed contacts of lithium-ion batteries with adhesive tape . In this way you protect the battery from dangerous short circuits..
3. Dispose of batteries: At the dealer or in the hardware store
In principle, you can return batteries directly to the dealer from whom you bought them. In Germany, the return of batteries is regulated by law. Simply contact the seller directly to dispose of your expired batteries.
Standard batteries, such as AA or AAA batteries, can be disposed of in the green collection boxes that many supermarkets set up in the checkout area. Lithium-ion batteries, such as those found in smartphones, on the other hand, should be in the yellow boxes . You can find them in many specialty stores, for example electrical or hardware stores. Larger batteries that are stuck in laptops, for example, can also be disposed of here.
Regardless of this, you can of course also connect the rechargeable batteries and batteries Hand in the disposal points of the local waste disposal companies . They usually also offer special programs for the disposal of old devices, including batteries.
4. What about built-in batteries?
The batteries are now permanently installed in many smartphones and notebooks. If it is not possible to remove the battery, the entire device must be disposed of . Most cities have appropriate collection points for this, such as landfills and recycling centers.
By the way: As an alternative to disposal, you should contact the manufacturer of the device to find out whether it is possible to replace the battery. Many manufacturers offer this for laptops or smartphones for a small fee. In this case you do not have to worry about the proper disposal of the old batteries..
5. Dispose of batteries: Further information
The Foundation for the Joint Take-Back System for Batteries (GRS) is an independent contact point that provides information on the proper disposal of rechargeable batteries and batteries. On the GRS website you will find not only information, but also an extensive collection of questions and answers on the disposal of batteries .