PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY — (Press Release) National Battery Day is February 18. This is a day to recognize the device that energizes the things that make our lives more convenient. But if handled improperly or disposed of improperly, batteries can have a dark side.
Batteries can be harmful to the environment. They are made from a variety of different chemicals and metals including alkaline, silver-oxide, nickel, metal-hydride, lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, lithium-ion, and zinc-carbon. When thrown in the regular trash, batteries decay in landfill sites and could leak into the groundwater, which pollutes soil and water in the community.
Properly disposing of batteries not only prevents pollution, it also conserves landfill space and saves metals and minerals that can be recycled and used in new products. Proper battery preparation for recycling is also essential to prevent fires while in transit, since batteries rubbing together create the risk of sparks and fire. This puts waste management employees in danger.
Scott McDonald, the Solid Waste Division Recycling Program Manager, stresses the importance of proper battery disposal. “It’s important that you don’t place batteries in your regular recycling bin, or trash can. Residents should take them to a battery collection site for proper handling.”
Preparation can also be critical. “When recycling rechargeable and single-use batteries rated nine (9) volts or higher, it is important to tape the terminals to reduce the chance of fire during transport or at the processing facility,” notes MacDonald. Simply place masking tape over the positive terminal of each battery, or return it to the original packaging for safe in home storage and transport. Use a plastic pail or cardboard box rather than a metal can for storage.
Prince William County residents can bring various types of household batteries and lead acid automotive batteries to the Prince William County Landfill or the Balls Ford Road Compost Facility every day.
In addition to the two county facilities, a number of retail outlets also make battery recycling convenient for many types of batteries. Home Depot, Lowes, Best Buy, Staples, or battery specialty stores like Batteries Plus and Interstate Battery all have battery-recycling programs. Mom’s Organic Market has an extensive recycling center that accepts a wide range of battery types. Earth 911 and Call2Recycle are other great online resources for battery recycling drop off locations, and battery recycling mail-in program options.
As we celebrate the power of batteries and the opportunity to disengage and connect, to tune in and unplug, let’s stay in tune with earth’s needs, make appropriate waste disposal, and recycling choices every day.
For more information on how to recycle in Prince William County, visit pwcgov.org/trashandrecycling.
Recent Stories
[Volunteer Prince William via Facebook]Volunteer Prince William has several opportunities through the holidays and into 2025, so make sure to check them out below. Greetings, Prince William: It’s All About…
Prince William County Police launch “Click It or Ticket” from Nov. 23 to Dec. 1, enforcing seatbelt and child safety seat laws. Buckle up and stay safe!
(The Center Square) – The cases against two men from Jordan accused of illegally attempting to enter Quantico Marine base have been dismissed.
From Fredericksburg Police VANDALISM:This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or Create a FREE Account. Thank you.
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.
We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.
Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.
Sing a Song of Christmas!!!
Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise
