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Battery Recycling Program
Used batteries containing hazardous metals (e.g. mercury,
cadmium, lead, and silver) are classified as universal waste rather
than hazardous waste. This allows Princeton to recycle the batteries,
while continuing to ensure that the batteries are handled in an environmentally
sound manner. Lead-acid batteries are also recycled.
Building Services administers a collection program to encourage this
recycling effort. Separate receptacles for NiCad and alkaline (although
alkaline batteries no longer contain a significant amount of mercury,
they should not be placed in the regular trash) batteries have been placed
in the stockrooms at Frick, Engineering Quad, Lewis Thomas Lab and Physics.
Containers for additional areas are available through Al
King at 8-1778. Batteries also may be brought to the Building
Services Administrative Offices at 180 Alexander St.
Packaging for Disposal
To guard against possible short circuiting, the Rechargeable Battery Recycling
Corporation (established by battery manufacturers) recommends you do at
least one of the following to prepare batteries for recycling:
- Discharge Cells: This should be done only by a knowledgeable
engineer or technician. Consult your battery supplier for instructions
on how to discharge cells completely and properly.
- Terminal Protection: If you cannot assure that the cells have
been completely discharged, then cover the terminals of each battery
with non-conductive tape.
- Place in a Plastic Bag: Batteries may be placed separately
in plastic bags so the terminals will not come in contact with other
batteries or metal during storage or transport.
- Package batteries so that terminals will not short-circuit during
storage or transport.
It is important to note that this program is intended only for batteries
generated from University operations. Individuals should continue
to use curbside recycling, household hazardous waste days, and purchase/exchange
programs for the disposal of personal batteries. Questions concerning
this program should be directed to Al King at 8-1778. Containers
for additional battery categories will be added as dictated by demand.
Lead Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries, including car batteries, are collected
by the University Garage and sent to a recycler. Contact EHS at 258-5294
for more information.
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