Batteries vary, from regular alkaline and carbon-zinc batteries to single-use or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries to small sealed lead-acid.
They serve nearly endless purposes as well.
However, like everything else artificial, they eventually turn into trash.
Just as there are battery variations, even how you dispose of them is different.
They power household gadgets such as flashlights, toys, TV remotes, gaming consoles, and much more.
Single-use batteries come in various sizes too, from AA and AAA to 9V and more.
They have a short to average lifespanas the name implies, you could only use them once.
These toxic chemicals can leach into the soil and reach the water supply if the disposal isnt properly managed.
Pay extra caution to batteries that are leaking because, as noted, the contents are toxic.
If a battery is leaking, clean it and store it separately.
If single-use batteries arent accepted, youll have to take them to a paid recycling center.
Fortunately, these centers often charge only a small fee, so the endeavor shouldnt set you back much.
But as noted, you cant trash them because theyll end up in landfill.
Instead, find or contact your regional waste management authority and drop them off.
Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries are slowly taking over and replacing single-use batteries.
As of writing, for every five dry-cell batteries bought, one is rechargeable.
Their popularity is due to their cost-effectivenessthey can be recharged and reused for a long time.
Rechargeable batteries typically contain chemicals like lithium-ion, nickel cadmium, and nickel metal.
They do so because they can be recycled into new products and put back on the market.
Itsillegal to do so in some states.
Therefore, disposing of them easily isnt an option.
The best step is to collect them until youre ready to drop them off at a recycling center.
DIY Power Bank From Old Laptop Batteries
Laptops are modern-day offices.
Check out thisInstructables guideto learn how to turn an old laptop battery into a DIY power bank.
In addition to the battery, here is more onwhat you could salvage for your broken laptop.
Make CLAP Control Car
Weve all seen a remote-controlled toy car, but a clap-controlled one?
Check out how thisHackster guideto make this futuristic toy.
Grab those old NiCd batteries awaiting recycling, and squeeze them for extra power.
Check thisInstructables tutorialto learn how to do it.
Here are moreDIY projects using old or dead batteriesyou can try.
Ensure no contact between active ends when gathering them for recycling, reuse, or disposal.
While its a much-welcomed change, itll result in even more dead or partially used battery waste.
Protect Mother Nature from this imminent waste problem by properly disposing of, recycling, or reusing dead batteries.
