Orscheln Farm & Home said Tuesday that a March program resulted in 100,700 batteries turned in for a $5 gift card. Officials said that represented about 3.7 million pounds that will be recycled into new batteries.
“By recycling the lead and plastic from junk batteries, we are not only helping to protect the environment, but helping to keep the costs down on new batteries sold to our customers,” said Dwaine Skopec, Orscheln buyer.
Due to the response, the business will hold a battery exchange again June 13-14. Customers can bring any brand auto, marine, farm, truck or two lawn and garden batteries in for recycling and receive a $5 gift card.
Orscheln’s battery supplier uses 100 percent of the scrap battery – nothing turned in goes to a hazardous waste site. The lead and plastic are used in the making of new batteries. The acid has the heavy metals removed and is used in new ones. The air from the smelter is cleaned through bag houses and scrubbed with water. Ammonia is added, producing fertilizer, which is used on farms.
Orscheln operates in 149 locations, including Houston, in nine states.