Battery collection and recycling

Collection and recycling of spent batteries

The recycling of spent batteries, particularly alkaline and lithium types, is crucial in Europe's efforts to mitigate environmental impact. These batteries, widely used in consumer electronics and household devices, contain toxic metals like cadmium, lead, mercury, and lithium, which pose risks to ecosystems and human health if improperly disposed of.

Battery recycling prevents these harmful substances from leaching into soil and water, while also recovering valuable materials like nickel, cobalt, and copper. Recovered materials can be reused in manufacturing new batteries, reducing the demand for virgin resources and lowering production costs.

Battery recycling in Europe

Europe has established robust frameworks for battery recycling, most notably through the Directive 2006/66/EC, which mandates high collection rates and proper recycling of waste batteries. Under this directive, producers are responsible for the collection and recycling of batteries they market, driving the design of products with recycling in mind.

Battery collection systems in Europe are well-developed, with designated points in retail stores, recycling centers, and municipal schemes. These systems ensure that spent alkaline and lithium batteries are correctly handled and recycled. Public awareness campaigns and incentive programs further boost participation in recycling efforts, emphasizing the environmental benefits and the dangers of improper disposal.

Storage and transportation of spent batteries

The storage and transportation of spent batteries pose unique challenges due to the chemical composition of the batteries, which can be hazardous if not handled correctly. In particular, spent batteries can release gases, create pressure build-up, or even cause fires if they are not properly contained. Therefore, selecting the right packaging is essential to ensure safety, compliance with regulations, and the overall effectiveness of recycling efforts.

Plastic screw lid drums for battery collection

CurTec’s plastic screw lid drums have been a favorite among major European battery collection schemes for over 20 years, and for good reason. These drums offer several advantages that make them particularly suited for the task:

• Spent batteries are considered hazardous goods and CurTec drums comply with applicable UN regulations, ensuring safe shipping
• CurTec drums can release any pressure build-up caused by gas from used batteries
• CurTec drums help limit battery movement and prevent damage from short circuits
• CurTec drums can be reused again and again thanks to their robust construction and raw material
• CurTec drums with screw lid closure are very accessible and easy to handle

Sustainable choice

CurTec drums are carefully designed and manufactured and are extremely suitable for multiple use. The choice to use them more than once is a responsible and sustainable choice, as it reduces the waste stream of a supply chain and reduces its ecological footprint.

Europe’s approach to battery recycling is comprehensive, with well-established collection systems and innovative sustainable packaging solutions like CurTec’s drums playing a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and efficient recycling of spent alkaline and lithium batteries. Ask for a free sample.

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