Why Proper Disposal Matters
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and lithium batteries contain chemicals and metals that are harmful to the environment if not disposed of correctly. Improper disposal can lead to:
- Toxic substances leaching into soil and waterways: Batteries contain chemicals like lead, sulphuric acid, and lithium, all of which can contaminate land and water sources if they end up in landfill.
- Fire hazards: Lithium batteries, in particular, are prone to combustion if damaged or exposed to high heat. This can lead to dangerous fires, especially in landfill environments.
- Waste of recyclable materials: Batteries contain metals and components that can be recycled and reused in new products. By disposing of them improperly, you’re contributing to unnecessary waste when many parts could be given a new life.
Disposing of AGM Batteries in Australia
AGM batteries, commonly used in off-grid setups, 4WDs, and caravans, contain lead and sulphuric acid. Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal, which is why it’s important to dispose of AGM batteries through the proper channels.
Steps for Safely Disposing of AGM Batteries:
1. Check if your battery is really at the end of its life. Sometimes batteries can be revived with reconditioning, so it’s worth checking if your AGM battery just needs a bit of TLC before replacing it. (Fun fact: KickAss battery chargers come with a special AGM Reconditioning mode, to help you revitalise old AGM batteries).
2. Find a local recycling centre: In Australia, AGM batteries are classified as hazardous waste, so you cannot throw them away with general rubbish. Most local councils offer battery recycling services. Visit your local council’s website or give them a call to find out where the nearest drop-off point is.
3. Contact auto shops: Many auto shops and mechanics offer take-back schemes for old lead-acid batteries, including AGM batteries. Companies like Supercheap Auto and Repco have recycling programs that ensure your old battery is properly recycled.
4. Use Planet Ark’s RecyclingNearYou service: Planet Ark provides a helpful service that allows you to locate battery recycling options in your area. Simply visit their website and search for your postcode to find nearby recycling centres that accept AGM batteries.
5. Transporting the battery: When transporting an old AGM battery, be cautious as it can still contain residual acid. Keep the battery upright and place it in a sturdy container or box to prevent any leakage during transport. If you notice any leaks, clean it up using a solution of water and baking soda, as this neutralises the acid.
Disposing of Lithium Batteries in Australia
Lithium batteries, which are increasingly popular in off-grid setups due to their lighter weight and longer lifespan, require different disposal methods. These batteries can pose a greater fire risk due to their chemical composition, so safe disposal is essential.
Steps for Safely Disposing of Lithium Batteries:
1. Determine if the battery is still usable: Lithium batteries often retain some charge even after they’re no longer suitable for your needs. If your lithium battery is still functional, consider donating it or selling it to someone who might get a bit more use out of it.
2. Do not throw lithium batteries in the rubbish: Due to the fire risk, lithium batteries should never be placed in regular waste or recycling bins. This applies to both small lithium-ion batteries (like those in electronics) and larger lithium batteries used in off-grid power setups.
3. Take advantage of recycling programs: In Australia, there are several organisations that specialise in recycling lithium batteries. These include:
- B-cycle: A national battery recycling scheme that accepts lithium batteries, both from household devices and larger applications. Many retailers, including Bunnings and Officeworks, have B-cycle bins for convenient battery disposal.
- Lithium Australia: An organisation committed to responsibly discharging, dismantling, shredding and recycling many kinds of lithium batteries
4. Battery World also accepts both small lithium batteries and larger off-grid style batteries for recycling.
5. Use a battery recycling facility: Many councils and waste management facilities accept lithium batteries for recycling. Check with your local council or visit the RecyclingNearYou website to find facilities near you that handle lithium batteries.
6. Properly prepare the battery for recycling: If your lithium battery is damaged, has swollen, or shows signs of leakage, it’s important to take extra precautions. Place the battery in a non-conductive material (such as sand or a plastic bag) and avoid exposing it to heat or direct sunlight while transporting it to a recycling facility.
The Benefits of Recycling Batteries
Recycling old batteries isn’t just about getting rid of them safely; it’s about reclaiming valuable materials and reducing the need for mining raw resources. By recycling batteries, we help recover materials like lead, aluminium, lithium, and cobalt. These materials can then be reused in new batteries and other products, reducing the environmental impact of mining and manufacturing.
Recycling also helps divert batteries from landfill, where they can pose significant risks to the environment and public health. Given that batteries can take hundreds of years to break down, proper disposal is a small but important step we can all take to reduce our environmental footprint.
