Scrap Metal Prices

Steel Prices

Register/Sign in
ScrapMonster
Are ads getting in your way? Register for Ad-free pages and live data.
Get an instant offer on your damaged car

This service is only available to US clients.

Battery Recycling December 18, 2012 12:01:01 PM

Lead Battery Recycling plant closure stirs fear of increased exports to Mexico

Paul Ploumis
ScrapMonster Author
Milton, Georgia based battery manufacturer, Exide Technologies is to idle its lead recycling operations at its Reading, Pennsylvania facility by March 2013.
Lead Battery Recycling plant closure stirs fear of increased exports to Mexico

MEXICO CITY (Scrap Monster): Milton, Georgia based battery manufacturer, Exide Technologies is to idle its lead recycling operations at its Reading, Pennsylvania facility by March 2013.

"This decision was based on several factors including the dramatic swings in the lead market and the high capital investment needed, due to regulatory requirements, to remain operational in Reading," explained Paul Hirt, president, Exide Americas.

The company said that it will continue to operate its plastics recycling business at the Reading facility. Exide will maintain the Reading facilities and the permits and approvals necessary for all recycling activities.

However, the move has been met with concern by the SLAB Watchdog - a non-governmental organisation dedicated to eliminating the environmental danger and community health issues caused by the foreign recycling of Spent Lead Acid Batteries (SLABs).

According to the group, the decision by Exide marks the second time this year the company has announced the closing of one of its highly regulated spent lead acid battery recycling facilities.

"It is unfortunate workers at Exide's facility have to bear the brunt of companies electing to send their used car batteries to poorly regulated Mexican recyclers," commented SLAB Watchdog director, Diane L. Cullo.

"In bypassing highly regulated American recyclers, exporters and the suppliers who turn a blind eye to the practice are showing their attitudes towards environmental, community, and worker protections. If these companies were truly committed to environmental stewardship, they would utilise highly regulated domestic recycling facilities employing American workers," she added.

The SLAB Watchdog said that it feared further closures of U.S. battery recycling facilities, resulting in an explosion of exports to Mexico's substandard recyclers.

Are ads getting in your way? Register for Ad-free pages and live data.

How to Recycle

Proper Disposal of Alkaline Batteries

Proper Disposal of Alkaline Batteries

Improper disposal of alkaline batteries can result in various negative consequences. Explore our blog post to discover safe disposal methods.
Christmas Tree Recycling - Responsible Ways

Christmas Tree Recycling - Responsible Ways

Proper preparation and using a reliable Christmas tree recycling directory ensures responsible disposal and maximizes the benefits.
Stop Throwing Away LED Light Bulbs -- Do This Instead

Stop Throwing Away LED Light Bulbs -- Do This Instead

Stop throwing away LED light bulbs and dispose of them responsibly. Proper disposal ensures environmental safety and sustainability.
powered by RecyclingMonster
Are ads getting in your way? Register for Ad-free pages and live data.
×

Quick Search

Advanced Search