The advantages of a deposit system to expedite the collection of batteries containing mercury and cadmium are explored against the background of the Swedish environmental protection system. Voluntary collection of used batteries at major points of sale accompanied by vigorous advertising and propaganda campaigns can achieve about 30-40% returns. A substantial deposit on batteries containing mercury or cadmium could result in collection returns of up to 90%. The Swedish Government has not yet decided whether to apply a deposit system on batteries containing fugitive heavy metals.
Backman, M., Jönsson, E. & Lidgren, K. (1982), Återvinning—teknik, ekonomi och styrmedel. Stiftelsen Svensk Återvinningsforskning. TEM, University of Lund. [Recovery—Technology, Economy and Control Aids. Institution of Swedish Recovery Research. TEM, University of Lund.]
2.
Freiberg, L. (1977), WHO environmental health criteria for cadmium . Ambio, 6(5), 282-290.
3.
Snv Pm 1688 (1983), Swedish National Protection Agency. "Hautering au Batterei,—Handlings program"
4.
Who (1976), Environmental health Criteria 1. Mercury. World Health Organization, Geneva.
