Batteries Act: Important Information for Battery Disposal and Recycling

Improper disposal of batteries can harm the environment and human health due to the hazardous chemicals they contain.

The UK's Batteries Act ensures batteries are collected, recycled, and disposed of properly. Here's what you need to know to dispose of batteries used in your lighting products safely:

Key Points About the Batteries Act

Purpose: The Batteries Act is designed to reduce environmental harm and promote recycling to recover valuable materials from batteries.
Regulations: The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009 govern the collection, treatment, and recycling of batteries in the UK.

Types of Batteries Commonly Used in Lighting Products

Battery Type	Description	Disposal Instructions
Alkaline Batteries	Common in many household items, including remote controls and small lamps must be recycled.	Drop off at designated collection points in stores or recycling centres. Do not dispose of household waste.
Rechargeable Batteries	Found in battery-operated lights, such as NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) or Li-ion (Lithium-ion) batteries.	It should be recycled at designated collection points. Do not dispose of the general waste.
Button Cell Batteries	Often used in small battery-operated lights or novelty lamps.	They must be taken to a recycling centre or collection point due to their chemical content.

Disposal Symbols and What They Mean

Crossed-out Dustbin: Indicates batteries should not be disposed of with general household waste.

Chemical Symbols:
- Pb: Contains lead.
- Cd: Contains cadmium.
- Hg: Contains mercury.

These symbols alert users to the presence of hazardous materials that require special handling and recycling.

How to Recycle Your Batteries

Identify the Battery Type: Check the battery for any symbols indicating hazardous materials.
Find a Recycling Point: Use the Recycle More website to locate your nearest recycling center or retail collection point.
Prepare for Disposal:
- Tape the terminals of batteries to prevent short circuits.
- Store used batteries in a cool, dry place until you can recycle them.
Drop Off at Collection Points: Bring your batteries to a designated recycling point. Many retailers and recycling centers accept old batteries for free.

How to Recycle Your Batteries

Identify the Battery Type: Check the battery for any symbols indicating hazardous materials.
Find a Recycling Point: Use the Recycle More website to locate your nearest recycling center or retail collection point.
Prepare for Disposal:
- Tape the terminals of batteries to prevent short circuits.
- Store used batteries in a cool, dry place until you can recycle them.
Drop Off at Collection Points: Bring your batteries to a designated recycling point. Many retailers and recycling centers accept old batteries for free.

Consumer Responsibilities

Proper Disposal: Consumers are legally required to recycle used batteries rather than dispose of them in household waste to prevent environmental contamination.
Recycling Locations: Batteries can be recycled at many local stores or designated recycling centers. Check your local area for the nearest collection points.

Why Proper Disposal is Important

Environmental Protection: Batteries contain hazardous materials that can leak into soil and water if not properly disposed of.
Resource Recovery: Recycling batteries helps recover valuable materials like metals, reducing the need for new raw materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I throw batteries in the bin?

Throwing batteries in the bin is illegal and can cause environmental harm and health risks due to the leakage of toxic substances.

Is it free to recycle batteries?

Yes, recycling batteries at designated collection points is free for consumers.

Where can I recycle my batteries?

Most supermarkets, DIY stores, and local council recycling centres offer battery recycling points. Use the Recycle More website to find the nearest location.

For more information on battery recycling you can contact us via the button below, or visit the UK government website at GOV.UK.