How to Recycle Batteries and Why Your Small Business Should

If your small business uses any electronics, there’s a good chance you go through lots of batteries. Whether you use single-use batteries or rechargeable ones, simply throwing out those batteries when you’re done with them can be extremely harmful to the environment.

But there are other options. There are several benefits for businesses that recycle batteries. And there are a few different ways you can recycle them as well.

How to Recycle Batteries

For recycling both single-use batteries and rechargeable batteries, check with your local recycling center to see what they accept. Earth 911 has a recycling locator you can use to find centers in your area that accept specific types of batteries and can tell you how to recycle batteries.

But for offices, companies like BigGreenBox offer a more convenient solution. You can purchase a box for $63, which includes all shipping and handling services. Then you can place the box in a convenient location in your office where your team can dispose of the batteries they use. Then when the box is full, you can ship it back to the company’s recycling facility.

Reasons to Recycle

Reduce Pollution

If you simply throw batteries away, they end up in landfills. But in the case of batteries, it’s not just about the raw materials ending up in landfills. Batteries contain corrosive materials that can be toxic when absorbed into soil or water.

In addition, recycling batteries can lead to less energy use for the companies that turn them into new batteries or other types of products. So by recycling batteries, you can potentially help your local area avoid soil and water contamination and conserve energy use.

Provide Materials for Other Products

The raw materials from batteries can, of course, be used by manufacturers to create even more batteries. Since it takes less energy for those companies to produce batteries out of recycled materials than it does to start from scratch, this could potentially result in some cost savings for those companies and their customers.

In addition, once some of the raw materials in batteries are broken down, they can be used in a wide range of other products, from sunscreen to dietary supplements. So recycling batteries can potentially help other types of companies reduce their energy use and raw materials as well.

Improve Public Image

Recycling batteries doesn’t necessarily come with the same cost savings or money-back potential as recycling other items like computers or cell phones. But there can still be tangible benefits for your business.

For example, Nielsen reports that more than half of consumers are willing to pay more for products or services from companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impact. And recycling can be a huge part of that.

While you’re unlikely to suddenly get thousands of new customers just because you recycle batteries, you can include it as part of a larger recycling and sustainability effort. And that can help to improve your image with potential customers and also potentially improve employee morale if your team is passionate about environmental causes.

Choosing the Right Battery Type for Your Business

When thinking about battery usage in your business, it’s essential to consider the types of batteries you use. The choice of battery technology can have a significant impact on both your operational costs and your environmental footprint. Here are some considerations:

• Single-Use Alkaline Batteries: These are the familiar disposable batteries found in most consumer devices. They are convenient but tend to be less eco-friendly due to their disposal after a single use.
• Rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries: Rechargeable batteries can be reused multiple times, reducing waste. They are an excellent choice for devices that require frequent battery changes, like wireless keyboards or mice.
• Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Batteries: Li-ion batteries offer high energy density and long-lasting performance. They are commonly used in smartphones, laptops, and many other portable electronics. Recycling options for Li-ion batteries are available, and they are more environmentally friendly than single-use alkaline batteries.
• Lead-Acid Batteries: These are typically used in larger devices, such as backup power systems or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). Lead-acid batteries are recyclable and have a longer lifespan compared to some other battery types.

Battery Safety Tips for Small Businesses

Ensuring battery safety is paramount, especially in small businesses where multiple devices rely on batteries. Following safety guidelines can prevent accidents and potential harm. Here are essential battery safety tips:

• Storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid keeping them in areas prone to moisture, as it can lead to corrosion.
• Check for Damage: Inspect batteries regularly for any signs of damage, such as leaks, cracks, or swelling. Damaged batteries can pose safety risks and should be replaced promptly.
• Charge Responsibly: If your business uses rechargeable batteries, use chargers specifically designed for the battery type and follow manufacturer instructions. Overcharging or using the wrong charger can damage batteries.
• Avoid Overheating: Do not expose batteries to excessive heat or open flames, as it can cause them to vent or explode. This includes leaving devices in hot cars or near heating sources.
• Proper Disposal: When it’s time to replace batteries, recycle them responsibly. Avoid throwing batteries in the regular trash, as they can be hazardous to the environment.
• Battery Separation: When storing batteries in bulk, keep them separated to prevent contact between positive and negative terminals, which can lead to short-circuits.
• Childproofing: If your workplace has small children present, keep batteries out of their reach. Swallowing batteries can lead to serious health risks.
• Emergency Response: Have a plan in place for handling battery-related emergencies, such as leaks or overheating. Train employees on how to respond safely to battery incidents.

Choosing Sustainable Battery Suppliers

In your journey toward responsible battery usage and disposal, one critical aspect to consider is your choice of battery suppliers. Selecting suppliers who prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly practices can make a significant difference. Here are some factors to evaluate when choosing battery suppliers:

• Environmental Certification: Look for suppliers that hold certifications such as ISO 14001 (environmental management) or are part of industry-specific sustainability initiatives. These certifications indicate a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
• Recycling Programs: Inquire whether the supplier offers battery recycling programs or supports responsible disposal practices. Suppliers that take back old batteries and recycle them demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
• Battery Types: Consider suppliers that offer a variety of battery types, including rechargeable and recyclable options. This enables you to make choices aligned with your environmental goals.
• Supply Chain Transparency: Suppliers that provide information about their supply chain practices, including sourcing of raw materials and ethical considerations, are more likely to be environmentally conscious.
• Energy-Efficient Manufacturing: Assess suppliers for their energy-efficient manufacturing processes. Suppliers that use renewable energy sources or prioritize energy conservation contribute to a greener supply chain.
• Recycled Materials: Inquire whether the supplier incorporates recycled materials in their battery manufacturing. This reduces the demand for virgin resources and promotes a circular economy.
• Longevity and Performance: Evaluate battery suppliers based on the longevity and performance of their products. Longer-lasting batteries result in fewer replacements, reducing waste.
• Customer Support: Consider the level of customer support offered by the supplier. A supplier that assists with proper battery disposal and recycling can simplify your sustainability efforts.

Battery Management Best Practices for Small Businesses

Effectively managing batteries within your small business involves more than just recycling and safety. Adopting best practices can optimize battery performance, prolong lifespan, and reduce costs. Here are some battery management tips:

• Inventory Tracking: Maintain an organized inventory system for tracking battery usage. Regularly update records to monitor battery lifespan and plan for replacements.
• Charge Management: Avoid leaving rechargeable batteries on chargers for extended periods. Overcharging can degrade battery performance. Implement charging schedules or reminders to prevent overcharging.
• Battery Testing: Periodically test batteries to assess their capacity and health. Testing helps identify weak batteries before they fail, reducing unexpected downtime.
• Storage Conditions: Store spare batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage to maintain battery health.
• Rotation: Implement a first-in, first-out (FIFO) rotation system for batteries to ensure older batteries are used before newer ones. This practice prevents unused batteries from deteriorating over time.
• Optimized Device Settings: Configure electronic devices to optimize battery life. Adjust screen brightness, screen timeout settings, and power-saving modes to maximize battery efficiency.
• Battery Maintenance: For devices with removable batteries, periodically clean battery contacts to prevent corrosion. Corroded contacts can lead to poor connectivity and reduced battery life.
• Battery Recycling Program: Establish a clear and accessible battery recycling program within your business. Encourage employees to participate and educate them on the importance of responsible disposal.
• Training and Awareness: Provide training to employees about battery safety, proper handling, and recycling procedures. Ensure they are aware of the potential environmental impact of improper disposal.
• Supplier Collaboration: Collaborate with battery suppliers to understand their recommendations for battery management and disposal. They may offer valuable insights and resources.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving realm of business, where technology assumes a central role, it becomes evident that responsible battery management stands as a critical facet of sustainability and efficiency. Small businesses can no longer disregard the environmental repercussions and operational expenditures linked to batteries.

The proactive steps toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future involve the recycling of batteries, repurposing old devices, selecting sustainable suppliers, and adopting best practices for battery management. These measures not only contribute to a diminished carbon footprint but also align with the increasing consumer demand for businesses that prioritize social and environmental responsibility.

Through the embrace of responsible battery usage, disposal, and management, small businesses can set a positive example, leaving a lasting impact on their communities, bolstering their reputations, and enhancing operational efficiency. They can exemplify the idea that every endeavor, regardless of its scope, plays a role in nurturing a more sustainable and conscientious future. In this manner, they champion innovation, environmental stewardship, and economic prudence in a business landscape marked by constant change.

Batteries Photo via Shutterstock