No matter how well you maintain your vehicle, various auto parts need to be replaced eventually, including your battery. Many people don’t realize that it’s possible—and easy—to recycle your old car battery once you’re done with it. Below are some of the benefits of this environmental practice. 

Why You Should Recycle Your Car Battery

Nearly 90% of lead-acid batteries are recycled. One major reason for this is to reduce their environmental impact. These auto parts contain elements like acid, lead, and mercury that can leak out and have harmful effects on the environment if they aren’t properly recycled. 

Recycling also cuts down on the need to manufacture new raw materials and components. Many parts of the battery can be reused after recycling. They can be made into more auto parts, including other batteries. This also helps eliminate extra waste that would otherwise go to a junkyard. 

How to Recycle Your Car Battery

When it’s time to replace your car battery, making sure it gets recycled is fairly easy. If you use an auto body shop, simply leave it with your mechanic, and they will handle it for you. If you change the battery yourself, though, find the nearest drop-off facility and take it there.

Once it’s at the proper facility, technicians will break the battery down, separating the plastic from the lead and acid. Once separated, the plastic is melted down and remade into new battery casings while the lead is boiled down and molded for various other purposes as well.

 

Whenever possible, always try to recycle your old auto parts, especially car batteries. If you have parts you need to dispose of properly, contact the experts at Northwest Auto Parts in Anchorage, AK. Since 1981, their salvage yard has helped manage car part waste and provided recycled auto parts for a variety of vehicles. Make sure your waste is handled correctly by calling (800) 770-6531. Visit them online today to learn more about their company.