March 29, 2024
BANGOR DAILY NEWS (BANGOR, MAINE

DEP to recycle batteries from ice storm

PORTLAND — The Department of Environmental Protection is setting up a battery recycling program to dispose of about 350 tons of alkaline batteries used during January’s ice storms.

“It is a one-shot deal,” said Deborah Garrett, director of education and outreach for the department. “We think because of the ice storms, this is a good time to do it.”

Officials are especially concerned about pollution associated with the disposal of older batteries. Batteries made before 1993 contain high levels of mercury and create toxic smoke when they burn.

Garrett said that during the ice storms people used flashlights, radios and other appliances that they might not have used in years. Many of those appliances may have contained old batteries.

The department will be collecting used batteries during a monthlong recycling program in 225 towns and cities. Barrels will be placed in the towns for the collection of dead AAA, AA, C, D, 9-volt and lantern batteries.


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