Research conducted by the Oeko-Institut revealed the shocking truth that around 35,000 tonnes of batteries are disposed of through household waste in Europe.
The disposal of batteries at landfill sites not only prevents valuable resources being recycled but also allows toxic substances such as cadmium and lead to enter the environment.
Part of the problem is the lack of information and collection-points to help consumers propoerly dispose of their batteries. However, batteries are having an increasing impact on our lives as we consume more battery-powered goods – like electric vehicles, bikes, phones etc. Here, manufacturers need to address battery recycling by ensuring electronic goods are designed with the environment in mind – for example by making batteries easily accessible and removable.
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