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). Rechargeable nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium-ion (Li-ion) and nickel–zinc (Ni-Zn), can also be recycled. There is currently no cost-neutral recycling option available for disposable alkaline batteries, though consumer disposal guidelines vary by region.

Source: Wikipedia

Batteries are a risk to human health and the environment if disposed of inappropriately. They also contain valuable metals such as cadmium, zinc, manganese, cobalt and rare earth metals that may be recovered through recycling.

Recycle your batteries to:

• reduce landfill
• reduce the use of finite natural resources in the production of new batteries
• remove toxic and hazardous substances from landfill (particularly lead, cadmium and mercury that may contaminate soil and groundwater)
• minimise the risk of explosions or fires as a result of inappropriately stored or disposed of lithium metal batteries.

Source: Sustainability Victoria

After collection, batteries are sorted by chemistry type. They are sent on to the respective recyclers in Australia and overseas. Precious materials and resources are recovered from the batteries, including:

• cadmium
• lithium
• nickel
• silver oxide
• zinc

Source: Sustainability Victoria