How does batteries hurt the envoirment?

Rechargeable batteries are considered environmentally friendly because although they still contain metals and chemicals that are toxic, they are good for the environment compared to non-rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries often last hundreds of times longer, meaning that less waste is produced and less resources have to be used to replace them.

Also, most other environmentally friendly devices such as solar panels require rechargeable batteries in order to function. Since solar energy is not available all the time (like at night) the power must be stored in a battery, which of course has to be rechargeable. "Environmentally friendly" cars such as hybrids and fully electrical cars rely on rechargeable batteries as an alternative to fossil fuels. Basically, rechargeable batteries cut down on waste and resources needed while making other environmentally friendly devices possible.