taking action mcgill

Two important types of batteries are the non-rechargeable alkaline batteries and the rechargeable Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) batteries. Although the use of Mercury in alkaline batteries has been reduced by 97%, toxic Mercury is still present in these batteries and this causes harm to the environment.

Even though using rechargeables greatly reduce the needs for alkaline, cadmium is considered to be very toxic by the EPA. Therefore, if these are not disposed of properly, then we are in essence replacing one heavy metal for another.

How you can make a difference?

The two best approaches to minimize the consequences of using batteries are to use them responsibly and recycle them. Responsible ways to use batteries have been suggested by Earth 911 (www.earth911.org). They are as follows:

1) Check to see if you already have the batteries on hand before buying more.
2) Look for the batteries that have less mercury and heavy metals.
3) Turn off any battery-operated appliances when not in use
4) Remove batteries from appliances if they are not going to be used for a long time.
5) To prevent a potential safety hazard, do not mix old batteries with new ones.

To recycle alkaline batteries, there are red boxes located throughout McGill in faculty buildings. The one in the Bronfman building is situated beside the porter’s office at the Sherbrooke entrance. Concerning the rechargeable batteries, there are over 70 locations where they collect them. These can be found at:
http://www.rbrc.org/call2recycle/dropoff/index.php. These locations include Canadian Tire, Future Shop, and La Source par Circuit City.

AN INCONVENIENT BAG – WASTE REDUCTION CHALLENGE

From March 16-23 2006, we ran a contest where participants were required to keep track of everything they threw away and recycled on a provided log sheet. Two points were awarded to garbage items, and one point to recycled. Prizes were awarded for participation.

The contest was hugely successful and helped raise awareness of responsible consumption. We would encourage anyone interested to run a similar contest, or even just take on such a challenge on their own. It’s a real eye-opener!