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Call2Recycle rechargeable battery recycling program is available to all California retailers at no cost

ATLANTA, June 28, 2006 –  The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), a nonprofit public service organization dedicated to recycling rechargeable batteries and cellphones, today announced that it is standing by to help California retailers of rechargeable batteries meet the requirements of the new “Rechargeable Battery Recycling Act of 2006” (A.B. 1125), effective July 1.

The new legislation requires retailers who sell rechargeable batteries in the state of California to provide consumers with a free system for returning these batteries for reuse, recycling or proper disposal. Batteries that must be collected include small, non-vehicular Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion), and Sealed Lead-Acid (Pb) rechargeable batteries, or battery packs containing such batteries. Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in portable electronics products such as: power tools, cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and cellphones.

Through RBRC’s free and easy recycling program, Call2RecycleT, retailers can fully comply with the new law almost immediately. The Call2Recycle program is the most comprehensive nationwide rechargeable battery and cellphone recycling program, and features more than 30,000 collection locations across the nation, including 4,695 locations in the state of California, where consumers can drop off used rechargeable batteries and old cellphones.

In addition to meeting new legal requirements, the Call2Recycle program also helps retailers to:

• Provide Recycling Reports – RBRC has a comprehensive reporting structure to provide detailed recycling reports to show the number of pounds collected per each location.
• Project a green image – Joining the Call2Recycle program demonstrates a commitment to preserving the environment.
• Increase sales – Customers dropping off used batteries and cellphones often shop for replacements.
• Increase interaction – Increases face-to-face interaction with customers.
• Establish warranty control – Collecting used batteries and cellphones may deter customers from wanting a refund on a used battery.
• Enjoy free promotion – Each participating store will be listed on the Call2Recycle web site, www.call2recycle.org, and be included on the toll free consumer helpline, 1-877-2-RECYCLE, informing the public where to drop off their used rechargeable batteries and cellphones.
• Conserve natural resources – Primary components of rechargeable batteries can be reclaimed to make new products – stainless steel products and new rechargeable batteries. Cell phones are refurbished and resold when possible. Portions of the proceeds received from resale will benefit select charities.

“All of us at RBRC are ready and willing to assist California retailers of rechargeable batteries with implementing a rechargeable battery collection program of their own,” said Ralph Millard, Executive Vice President, RBRC. “Our Call2Recycle program offers the perfect vehicle for companies to meet the new requirements, while helping to preserve the environment at the same time.”

Retailers interested in enrolling in the Call2Recycle program can visit www.call2recycle.org or call toll free 877-723-1297 to find out more about the program.

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About Call2Recycle®
Call2Recycle is the industry’s first and only product stewardship program for rechargeable batteries. The nonprofit program is administered by the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), a public service organization dedicated to rechargeable battery recycling. There are more than 30,000 Call2Recycle drop-off locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. More than 175 manufacturers and marketers of portable rechargeable batteries and products show their commitment to conserve natural resources and prevent rechargeable batteries from entering the solid waste stream by funding the Call2Recycle program. In pursuit of its mission, Call2Recycle also collects old cellphones, which are either recycled or refurbished and resold when possible with a portion of the proceeds benefiting select charities. For more information, call 877-2-RECYCLE or visit www.call2recycle.org.

 

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