Wondering what to do with those old batteries sitting at the back of the drawer? Hint: they don’t belong in the garbage.
Metro Vancouver is reminding residents that electronics (e-waste) and used batteries should be taken to a recycling facility for safe disposal. Electronics and used batteries are potentially hazardous if disposed of in the garbage, where they can cause fires and release harmful chemicals into our environment.
Unfortunately, many electronics continue to be tossed in the garbage. Electronics are one of the most commonly found items when garbage loads are inspected for banned materials at Metro Vancouver disposal facilities.
In October 2020, Metro Vancouver began promoting e-waste and battery recycling on social media and other online channels, to raise awareness that electronics and batteries can be recycled for free in our region.
We often forget the many things that contain embedded batteries – like noisy toys, musical greeting cards and key fobs – can be recycled and given a second life as new products. Bottom line: if it has a battery or a cord, it should be recycled, not put in the garbage.
Go to www.MVRecycles.org to find your closest recycling location.
