When you buy new UPS systems to replace antiquated VRLA or lead acid UPS battery backups with failing batteries. Now what?

Don’t just toss the UPS systems you’re replacing. Recycle them! (It’s  the law in our country, anyway.)

The United Nations estimates that, in 2016, 44.7 million metric tons of e-waste was generated, and only 20 percent of it was recycled. UN experts forecast e-waste increasing a further 17 percent, to 52.2 million metric tons, by 2021. It’s important to take action and dispose of electronic waste properly.

We know your VRLA UPS system contains two poisonous and toxic substances. They’re listed right in the name — lead and acid (sulfuric). That alone should tell you the importance of recycling them.

Among other hazardous substances, electronic devices can also contain mercury and cadmium, which should also be recycled or disposed of properly. In addition, lead must be mined, which brings its own set of harmful environmental consequences.

The lead-acid batteries inside your UPS — which are similar to deep-cycle marine batteries — are banned from landfills and incinerators in every state because they are so toxic. Exposure to the components inside can cause health problems in humans and animals, and they can poison water supplies if their contents leak out.

The batteries contain lead plates, which are immersed in an acid and water solution inside its plastic container. Over time, the plates wear down and the acid dilutes, causing the batteries to fail and be replaced, usually every 2-5 years.