What can one teenager do with a plan, a few collection bins or a conversation with a neighbour? As part of Earth Rangers’ Battery Blitz Mission, five teens showed how they could bring people together to collect used batteries for recycling.
Through our renewed partnership with Earth Rangers, the Recycle Your Batteries, Canada! program is helping young people learn about battery recycling and take action in their communities. Their submissions show the planning, persistence and personal connections behind each project.
Fable, 14, British Columbia, put up 100 posters to spread the word about a neighbourhood battery collection. After collecting four bags of used batteries, Fable prepared them for drop-off at Canadian Tire. The project also created an unexpected connection: one grateful neighbour baked Fable a loaf of banana bread. “It was very satisfying to collect four bags of batteries and build great relationships with the locals,” Fable wrote.
For Theskshith, 14, Ontario, the project was a first experience volunteering. Going door to door gave Theskshith the chance to meet neighbours, help them recycle used batteries and explain why batteries need to be kept out of household garbage.
Ernest, 14, Ontario, started a battery collection at a new school. After working with a supervising teacher, setting up bins and arranging a morning announcement, Ernest collected 1,647 batteries. The experience meant more than the final count: “It made me feel like I belong at this school and like I can make a difference here.” Ernest plans to pass the project materials and lessons learned to the school’s eco-club for its next collection.
Nicholas, 17, Newfoundland, collected 88 batteries and brought them to a local drop-off location. Choosing and organizing his own project helped him grow more comfortable speaking with neighbours about an issue he cares about. He said the experience inspired him to keep taking environmental action.
Every Battery Blitz looked a little different. Together, these stories show what happens when young people have the chance to turn what they learn into action close to home. We’re proud to work with Earth Rangers to support that curiosity and initiative.
Interested in getting involved? Students can execute their own battery blitz by registering as an Earth Rangers Teen and by following the ER Teens Battery Blitz guide.
Have used batteries at home? Find a battery recycling drop-off location near you by using our online locator.
