Motor oil set out by curb for today’s pickup got responding note from Recycle Ann Arbor weighted down by jug: Curbside pickup for that no longer provided – it can be dropped off at the Ellsworth & Platt station. [photo]
Mulholland & Liberty
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Name was rude and used offensive language but made a point. If people find that they are not able to leave oil and batteries on the curb, the temptation to simply throw things into the trash bin (which is not inspected) will be strong. Not everyone is motivated to make a special trip to the Drop-off Station and pay a fee for the privilege of disposing of things properly.
On that other news site someone suggested that the recycling folks don’t want to come out and say so but that the regular alkaline batteries should just be thrown in the trash. Anyone know if this is true? If the city wants us to recycle them it should be easier than driving 5 miles (for me) and paying $3. Maybe they could put a few drop boxes — at City Hall or the City Center Building — around town.
From the Spring/Summer 2010 WasteWatcher:
“It is generally accepted that used alkaline batteries can be placed in the trash. U.S. alkaline batteries have eliminated the addition of mercury since 1995.”
(My husband recommends taping the positive end to avoid electrical transmission, potentially leading to a fire under unusual circumstances.)
BUT: “Rechargeable batteries contain toxic, heavy metals such as Nicke-Cadmium, Lithium, and Mercury and should not be placed in the trash.” The publication says that there are free drop-off boxes at various locations.
So consumers must be informed and, again, motivated to dispose of these toxic materials properly.
Thanks Vivienne. I guess I should read the Wastewatcher…