By Matt Nasworthy, AAA Members Magazine GOING PLACES

What’s in your neighborhood’s recycling bins? It probably contains some plastic bottles, newspapers and, of course, aluminum cans. But it’s what isn’t inside that’s far more harmful to the environment when not recycled. You might even have one in your garage or backyard right now. It’s spent batteries.

Last year, over 100 million automotive batteries were sold in the United States alone, and yet it’s estimated that only one in six households recycles them when they are spent.

Lead-acid batteries, like the one in your car, contain a large amount of toxic material. This includes 21 pounds of lead, three pounds of plastic and one gallon of sulfuric acid. Any one of these elements can be quite destructive if released into the environment. But when a battery is recycled, its components can be reclaimed and reused.

So what do you do with your old batteries? First of all, do not put them in those neighborhood recycling bins. Bring any old automobile, marine, motorcycle, tractor or lawn mower batteries to the Great Battery Roundup sponsored by the American Automobile Association.

In recognition of Earth Day, AAA is collecting spent lead-acid batteries at participating AAA locations. And for every battery collected, $1.50 will be donated to environmentally friendly charities. Ed Schatzman, senior vice president, AAA Automotive Services said, “There’s no reason for these batteries to be left sitting around posing a threat. It’s encouraging to see people taking positive steps to protect their children, pets and the environment.”

AAA Battery Service will also be offering a free automotive electrical system test to anyone who stops by participating AAA locations during the event. This test includes a check of the battery, alternator and charging system. In 2003, AAA Battery Service replaced and recycled more than 200,000 batteries nationwide.

Call your local area AAA service for information about the Great Battery Roundup, If you plan to take part in this event, AAA Battery Service offers these tips on how to safely transport your battery:
     Wear gloves and safety glasses while handling lead-acid batteries.
     Keep batteries upright and place in a sturdy container for transporting.
     Do not smoke or expose batteries to an open flame.

To learn more, visit http://www.aaa.com/