Batteries are non-rechargeable (or only very limited rechargeable) storage devices for electrical energy. They are also referred to as primary cells. The Battery Act classifies batteries according to their area of application. A distinction is made between device, vehicle, and industrial batteries.

Accumulators are rechargeable storage elements, also known as secondary cells. Several secondary cells connected together are also referred to as a battery. The main components of batteries are mostly metals. Recovering these metals helps to conserve resources. However, batteries also contain substances that are hazardous to health and the environment. For this reason, they must not be disposed of with residual waste.

The return of used batteries is mainly the responsibility of battery distributors (retailers). Public waste disposal authorities also offer the disposal of used batteries as hazardous waste via collection points/hazardous waste collection vehicles and recycling centers.

The take-back of used portable batteries is primarily the responsibility of battery distributors (retailers). Public waste disposal authorities also offer the disposal of used portable batteries as hazardous waste via collection points/mobile hazardous waste collection vehicles and recycling centers.

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