AAA Great Battery Roundup

Held every year in conjunction with Earth Day, the AAA Great Battery Roundup is designed to encourage motorists to take old automotive or marine lead-acid batteries to a local collection point where they can be safely recycled and formed into new batteries.

To encourage the recycling effort, local AAA offices establish battery collection points and offer free vehicle battery checks. In 2002, more than 11,000 batteries were collected, including 412 by AAA Hoosier Motor Club. Many AAA clubs donated funds to environmental groups such as the Nature Conservancy. In Northern California alone, AAA's California State Automobile Association donated proceeds to 16 regional environmental groups.

Used vehicle batteries are a toxic danger to humans and the environment - as well as a potentially dangerous fire and safety hazard. Unfortunately, every year more than 7 million of them are disposed of improperly. Many are illegally dumped in rivers and streams or end up in landfills. More are simply sitting in a forgotten corner of someone's property where they can contaminate soil and ground water, explode in a fire or become a source of lead poisoning to humans and animals.

No Hidden Agenda

AAA sponsors this activity strictly as a public service. Involving members and the public in conservation efforts such as recycling, fuel conservation and proper vehicle maintenance is an important way for AAA to contribute to improving the environment for everyone.

Read more about AAA programs: National Car Care Month, Promoting Ecotourism and State / Local Activities.