Batteries are an essential part of our lives powering everything from our phones to our cars. But what happens when we’re done with them? Can we just throw them away?
It turns out car batteries are one of the most commonly recycled items in the world. In the United States alone over 80% of lead-acid batteries are recycled. But what about the other 20%?
It’s estimated that up to 10 million car batteries are not recycled each year in the United States. So where do they go?
Unfortunately many of them end up in our oceans.
Each year hundreds of thousands of tons of batteries are dumped in landfills where they leak lead and other harmful chemicals into the ground. From there it’s not a far journey to our waterways.
Lead is a highly toxic metal that can cause a range of health problems including brain damage learning disabilities and even death. Once in the water lead can easily make its way into the food chain.
It’s not just lead that’s a problem. Batteries also contain other harmful chemicals like cadmium and mercury. These can bioaccumulate in creatures high up on the food chain eventually making their way into our own bodies.
While recycling is the best option for batteries it’s not always possible. If you can’t recycle your car battery make sure to dispose of it properly at a hazardous waste facility. And most importantly don’t dump it in the ocean!
Is it okay to throw car batteries in the ocean?
No it is not okay to throw car batteries in the ocean because they are considered to be hazardous waste.
What should you do with a car battery if you can’t recycle it?
If you can’t recycle a car battery you should take it to a hazardous waste facility.
How do car batteries pollute the ocean?
Car batteries pollute the ocean by releasing harmful chemicals into the water.
What are some of the harmful chemicals released from car batteries?
Some of the harmful chemicals released from car batteries include lead acid and mercury.
How does lead from car batteries affect marine life?
Lead from car batteries can poison marine life and cause brain damage.
How does mercury from car batteries affect marine life?
Mercury from car batteries can contaminate seafood and make it unsafe to eat.
How does acid from car batteries affect marine life?
Acid from car batteries can lower the pH of seawater and make it more acidic.
What is the pH of seawater?
The pH of seawater is usually between 7.
5 and 8.
5.
How does the acidity of seawater affect marine life?
The acidity of seawater can damage the shells of marine creatures and make it difficult for them to grow.
What is the difference between a car battery and a marine battery?
A car battery is designed to start a car engine while a marine battery is designed to start a boat engine.
Can car batteries be used to power a boat?
No car batteries cannot be used to power a boat.
Can marine batteries be used to power a car?
No marine batteries cannot be used to power a car.
What is the best way to dispose of a car battery?
The best way to dispose of a car battery is to take it to a recycling center.
What happens to car batteries when they are recycled?
Car batteries are recycled by extracting the lead and other metals from them.
What are some other ways to recycle car batteries?
Some other ways to recycle car batteries include using them to power homes or to make new car batteries.
