Why you should buy battery-free presents these holidays

Battery sales skyrocket over the festive season, and discarded batteries are a huge environmental hazard.

Less than 3% of all batteries purchased in Australia are recycled, the rest end up going to landfill. This is a scary fact considering batteries contain hazardous chemicals and toxic metals that leach into the soil and waterways when they erode in landfill.

According to Clean Up Australia, "Some of these chemicals, such as nickel and cadmium, are extremely toxic and can cause damage to humans and the environment. In particular, they can cause soil and water pollution and endanger wildlife."

Battery sales are at their highest during the festive season, and even rechargeable batteries find their way into the waste stream eventually.

A likely a major reason for the spike in sales during the festive season is due to all the toys being purchased for kids, but there are loads of battery-free toys you could buy instead, such as:

- Board games

- Books

- Craft kits

- A trip to the zoo/fun-park/aquarium/movies

- Balls and other sporting equipment

- Puzzles

- Skateboards, bikes and scooters

RELATED: Give moments not things this festive season

With so many gift options that don't require batteries at all, why not think twice about buying a battery powered gift this year?

Here are some more tips to a happy and sustainable festive season:

Choosing a planet-friendly Christmas Tree

Top tips for a low-waste, mindful festive season

How to make your Hanukkah/Chanukah planet-friendly

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