May 9 2007
Many of the cordless power tools that builders rely on are powered by rechargeable batteries, which should be recycled when they no longer hold a charge instead of being thrown away. According to a recent survey commissioned by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), many builders currently dispose of these batteries properly, with 44 percent indicating that they recycle the used rechargeable batteries from their power tools when they no longer hold a charge. However, the survey also revealed that there exists a discrepancy between builders' awareness of rechargeable battery recycling and actual recycling practices, as close to 30 percent of homebuilders surveyed are aware that rechargeable batteries are recyclable, yet do not actively recycle them.
Through RBRC's Call2Recycle(TM) business collection program, these used rechargeable batteries can be properly disposed of and kept out of the solid waste stream. Call2Recycle, the most comprehensive nationwide rechargeable battery and cell phone recycling program, provides a convenient way to collect and recycle used rechargeable batteries found in products, such as cordless power tools and two-way radios. According to the survey, only 35% of respondents have company sponsored recycling programs. Signing up for the Call2Recycle program is free, as arethe collection boxes, shipment and processing of used rechargeable batteries, so it makes it easy for builders to take advantage of the service. Presently, there are more than 3,800 businesses in the U.S. and Canada that participate in the Call2Recycle program.
"While most builders are aware that the batteries powering their cordless tools are recyclable and many currently recycle them, there is still a tremendous opportunity to boost recycling participation to include the majority of builders," said Ralph Millard, Executive Vice President, RBRC. "This survey showed us that there is a gap between knowledge and practice, which can best be bridged by educating builders on their responsibility to the environment, and in some states, the law."
Respondents cited retail store recycling as one of the most frequently identified locations for recycling rechargeable batteries, which makes RBRC's partnerships with retail outlets like Lowe's, The Home Depot and Sears so vital in increasing participation among the builder audience. Consumers can bring used rechargeable batteries to stores nationwide and deposit them in branded collection bins, and all stores are listed as drop-off sites on RBRC's Web site and toll-free help line.