Batteries

Battery recycling is a recycling activity that aims to reduce the number of batteries being disposed as municipal solid waste. It is widely promoted by people concerned about contamination, particularly of soil contamination and water pollution, by the addition of heavy metals and other toxic chemicals from batteries.

Most types of batteries can be recycled. However, some batteries are recycled more readily than others, such as lead-acid automotive batteries (nearly 90% are recycled)and button cells (because of the value and toxicity of their chemicals). Other types, such as alkaline and rechargeable, can also be recycled.

Lead-acid batteries

These batteries include but are not limited to: Car Batteries, Golf Cart Batteries, UPS Batteries, Industrial Fork-Lift Batteries, Motorcycle Batteries, and Commercial Batteries. These can be regular lead acid , sealed lead acid, Gel Type, or absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries.

Silver Oxide Batteries

Used most frequently in watches, toys and some medical devices silver oxide batteries can become highly hazardous at the end of their useful life. After a period of use of approximately five years the batteries may begin to leak their contents which contains mercury posing a serious health risk. The mercury will begin to corrode the inner shell of the battery. In most jurisdictions there exists legislation to regulate the appropriate handling and disposal of silver oxide batteries in order to minimise the risk to public health and the environment
(couresty Wikipedia)

Battery Reference Guide

Companies in Trinidad who recycle batteries

• SWMCOL will accept dry cell batteries generated in Trinidad and Tobago only, such as those used in cell phones, transistor radios, cameras, computers, transceiver radios (walkie-talkies), toys ... You can drop your dry cell batteries off at SWMCOL’s Head Office, 34 Independence Square, Port of Spain, Trinidad. Sorry no motor car or lead acid batteries will be accepted.
• Caribbean Battery Recycling - http://www.greentnt.org/content/caribbean-battery-recycling-limited
• Piranha International - 679-7826, www.piranhatt.com