Toxic Batteries a Health Threat: Green Group Urges Government to Act

Friday, 16 May 2003 10:00

The government should be regulating producers of toxic products to protect human health, TEC said.
"NiCads are one of the main offenders when it comes to environmental toxicity," said TEC Campaigner, Jane Castle.

"Safer alternatives or recycling are available but the market is not delivering them. A strong regulation must come from government to ensure industry takes responsibility for the effect of its products on the environment."

NiCad batteries, one of the government targeted 'wastes of concern', are used to run power tools and can be found in a range of electrical products including laptop computers, mobile phones, cordless phones and camcorders. The cadmium in the batteries is a highly toxic heavy metal which can leach into the environment and cause kidney disease and lung damage. Around 500 tonnes per year end up in NSW landfills.

"Producer responsibility makes both environmental and economic sense," said Ms Castle. "Take-back schemes can create new jobs while maintaining a healthy environment, essential for long term economic sustainability."

"Europe is close to banning NiCads completely, and we should be following their lead by regulating for Extended Producer Responsibility."