Waste management proposal for depleted cell phones batteries in Venezuela

The disposal of depleted cell phones batteries in municipal landfills represents a negative impact for the environment, due to the potential effect on of the biological and physical environment, in addition to the waste of materials that are non-renewable natural resources which can be recovered through recycling processes, contribute to the sustainability in their uses. As a solution to this environmental problem, a plan of management of these batteries is proposed. This plan deals with recycling using the piro-metallurgical process or just sending the batteries to other countries, until it is possible to establish the recommended process in Venezuela. Before the recycling phase, a system to recover the depleted batteries is presented which include all the involved sectors and the municipalities. Finally, it is suggested the establishment of specific legislations on batteries that encourage the recycling industry and an advertising campaign that stimulates citizens participation.