Rechargeable batteries last longer and are most definitely better for your wallet. Rechargeable batteries can actually be several hundred, to several thousand dollars cheaper per kilowatt hour than disposables! One aspect of rechargeable batteries that people often don't think of, however, is that they are also better for the environment.

Each year, over fifteen billion batteries are produced and sold worldwide. Many of these are alkaline batteries, which are used one time and then disposed of after just one use. Fortunately, more people are turning to rechargeable batteries, partly due to having more and more high drain devices in the average home. These batteries have a higher capacity, and can usually be used hundreds of times before needing to be replaced. This not only saves the consumer money, but keeps more batteries out of our landfills, which is better for the environment.

Battery acid is toxic, and getting the acid into the groundwater causes serious environmental contamination. Disposable batteries can pollute lakes and streams, as the metals vaporize into the air when burned. Heavy metals in the batteries can leach from solid waste landfills, and the environment and water is exposed to lead and acid. Disposable batteries also contain strong corrosive acids. Dead batteries, no matter what type, should be treated as hazardous waste and disposed of properly, and there are many battery recycling facilities available.

Whether your motivation is money or the environment, everyone should consider using rechargeable batteries in their household devices. One last benefit to think about is that you are much less likely to ever have to dig for batteries if you have rechargeable batteries on hand!