New battery chemistry recognized by RBRC; Nickel Zinc (Ni-Zn) rechargeable batteries now accepted through Call2Recycle
ATLANTA, August 6, 2008 – The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), a nonprofit, public service organization dedicated to recycling used rechargeable batteries, has expanded its rechargeable battery collection program for the first time in seven years to encompass a new chemistry, Nickel Zinc (Ni-Zn). Ni-Zn is now the fifth rechargeable chemistry recognized by RBRC, joining Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal-Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium-ion (Li-ion) and Small Sealed Lead (Pb) rechargeable batteries.
Representing more than 350 manufacturers of rechargeable batteries, RBRC licensees comprise more than 90 percent of the rechargeable battery industry. PowerGenix, a manufacturer of non-toxic, safe, high performance rechargeable Ni-Zn batteries, has become the first manufacturer of Ni-Zn technology to become involved in RBRC’s Call2Recycle program. The Ni-Zn rechargeable batteries will be branded with an RBRC Battery Recycling Seal, letting consumers and businesses know that they may be recycled at more than 50,000 RBRC collection sites in the U.S. and Canada.
“Since launching the program in 1996, we have collected more than 42 million pounds of rechargeable batteries through Call2Recycle,” said Greg Broe, Interim Chief Operating Officer, RBRC. “Expanding the scope of the program to include the Ni-Zn battery chemistry is a logical response to advancements in the portable power industry and the proliferation of new battery chemistries in the marketplace.”
“RBRC serves a valuable role, joining the world’s major rechargeable battery manufacturers into a single body committed to act responsibly in support of proper resource utilization and environmental care,” explained Dan Squiller, CEO of PowerGenix. “Licensing with RBRC is an important step in helping consumers identify local recycling opportunities available to them and positioning Nickel-Zinc to become a mainstream battery chemistry.”
RBRC’s Call2Recycle is the most comprehensive rechargeable battery and cellphone recycling program available nationwide. The program provides a convenient way to collect and recycle old cellphones and used rechargeable batteries found in cordless electronic products, such as laptop computers, cordless power tools, two-way radios, cordless phones, cellphones, digital cameras and camcorders. For more information and to find drop-off locations in your area, visit www.call2recycle.org or call toll free at 877-2-RECYCLE for local retailers and community centers that collect used rechargeable batteries.
About PowerGenix
PowerGenix has developed and patented a high-energy density, high-cycle life and cost effective Nickel-Zinc battery targeting the market for power intensive portable products and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Specifically designed to utilize existing Nickel-Cadmium/Nickel Metal Hydride manufacturing processes, techniques and equipment, PowerGenix offers the supply chain scaling and security OEMs require. With its patented rechargeable Nickel-Zinc battery technology, PowerGenix is pursuing applications to replace existing Nickel-Cadmium and Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries in the multi-billion dollar rechargeable battery market.
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.
AUG