Battery recycling
starts in Rushcliffe
A new scheme for collecting and recycling household batteries has just started in Rushcliffe, following a successful campaign by Liberal Democrat councillor Rod Jones, who represents Musters ward in West Bridgford.
Previously, batteries could only be disposed of by putting them in the grey bin along with the normal non-recyclable household waste. When the batteries eventually ended up in landfill or the incinerator, the toxic chemicals contained in them would have caused unacceptable levels of pollution.
Rushcliffe Borough Council is now distributing special plastic bags into which householders can put their old batteries. The sizes and types accepted are:
size AA and AAA
size C and D
6-volt and 9-volt (e.g. those used in smoke alarms)
button batteries (e.g. those used in watches or calculators)
mobile phone batteries
laptop batteries
Disposable or rechargeable batteries in any of the above sizes are acceptable. Just put the batteries in the bag, and leave the bag on top of any of your bins (grey, blue or green) on the appropriate collection day. The binmen will take the bag and give you a new one.
Special note about car batteries
Car batteries or any other large lead-acid batteries such as those used in motorbikes, boats or generators cannot be accepted in this scheme. There are two options:
- Take a used car battery to the council tip, where there is a clearly designated disposal point.
- If you are buying a new battery from a dealer, ask the dealer to remove and dispose of the old battery.
Please be careful when handling a car battery, as it contains strong acid. Always keep it upright and avoid spilling the contents.
