There has been a massive increase in the demand for batteries, as well as an evolution and history of the battery. This demand stems from the fact that billions of people carry electronics that consume electricity. These electronics include cell phones, laptops, and digital cameras. Batteries power our toys and gadgets by converting chemical energy into electrical energy. The opposite ends of a battery, known as the anode and the cathode, generate an electrical circuit that conducts power to an electronic device.

Once this electrical circuit is depleted, batteries should be safely disposed, but millions of batteries are tossed into the trash by consumers every year. While throwing away batteries may seem harmless, it can have dire effects on the environment. Each battery contains hazardous, toxic and corrosive materials like mercury, cadmium, lithium, and lead.