Call2Recycle's used battery collection hits record high in 2016

TORONTO (Scrap Monster): Toronto-based Call2Recycle Canada has reported record-breaking collection of used batteries in Canada during 2016. The consumer battery recycling stewardship organization reported its best year of collection in 2016. The collection of household batteries collected for recycling exceeded 2.7 million kilograms during the year. The total collection increased by over 12% when matched with the previous year. Call2Recycle’s battery collection had totaled only around 2.4 million kilograms during 2015.

Various Canadian provinces have reported huge jump in battery collections during the year. As per estimates, the collections in Quebec surged higher by 17% over the previous year to total around 1.1 million kilograms in 2016. Manitoba reported 18% jump in collections during the year. The province collected nearly 100,000 kilograms of household batteries for recycling in 2016. The collection by B.C totaled nearly 700,000 kilograms, modestly higher by 8% when matched with the previous year. Ontario collected around 400,000 kilograms, up by over 8% when compared with the collections during 2015.

Joe Zenobio, executive director of Call2Recycle Canada reciprocated the overwhelming support and participation of its stewards, collection sites and the public for making it possible for them to responsibly manage the end-of-life of batteries. Zenobio applauded the efforts undertaken by all Canadians over the past 20 years in joining hands with them to keep maximum quantity of batteries out of landfills. Further, he assured that the organization will continue to work to make positive environmental impact during the years to come.

According to Call2Recycle, more than 70% of the Canadian consumers are very well aware of battery recycling in their communities. However, there is still huge opportunity for growth, it noted. It called upon all Canadians to join the fight in reducing waste, thereby making greater positive impact on the environment in 2017. The tremendous growth in collection rates achieved during the previous year is a clear indication of interest shown by Canadians in efforts to reduce waste.

Call2Recyle noted that it will continue to offer robust, convenient programs that ensure safe and easy ways of battery recycling to its customers. In order to help meet highest industrial standards, Call2Recycle has proposed a change in fee schedule for single-use batteries collected in B.C and Manitoba provinces. Effective February this year, an environmental handling fee will be introduced in these provinces. Also, the existing fee schedule for batteries in Quebec will be amended.

Call2Recycle, Inc. is a not-for-profit, stewardship organization committed to the safe collection, transportation and recycling of consumer batteries and cellphones across Canada (Call2Recycle Canada, Inc.) and the U.S. Founded in 1994, the organization works on behalf of stakeholders to protect and preserve the environment by providing its battery and cellphone recycling program.