Biti's 'collect old batteries - green the forest' campaign leaves its mark

The Biti's brand collected approximately 350,000 batteries, planted over 32,000 trees after four seasons, and connected the community to join hands in environmental protection

Biti's, a prominent brand, has made a significant impact with its "Collect old batteries - Green the forest" campaign, which began in 2022. After four successful seasons, the initiative has collected over 5,3 tons of used batteries, equivalent to approximately 350,000 individual batteries. This effort has led to the planting of more than 32,000 trees across various nature conservation sites in Vietnam, connecting communities nationwide in environmental protection. The latest phase, season 4, ran from 5/6 to 25/6, utilizing Biti's retail stores across the country as collection points.

The campaign addresses a critical environmental issue: the hazardous impact of improperly discarded batteries. Research indicates that one discarded battery can contaminate about 500 liters of water and affect one cubic meter of soil for 50 years. Despite this, accessing specialized battery disposal services remains a challenge for many people. Biti's explained that organizing proper collection and treatment points helps limit the release of heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium into the environment. This protects natural ecosystems and raises community awareness about hazardous waste management.

Volunteers from the company plant trees after the "Collect old batteries - Green the forest" campaign. Photo: Biti's

Through the initiative, Biti's stores nationwide serve as collection hubs for used batteries. The program commits to planting one tree for every 15 old batteries collected (an increase from 10 batteries in the first three seasons). This commitment, in partnership with Joy Foundation, has resulted in the successful reforestation of areas including Ta Dung National Park; the Nam Nung, Nui Ong, and Binh Chau - Phuoc Buu nature reserves; the A Luoi protection forest; and the Dong Nai biosphere reserve. The collected batteries, totaling over 5,3 tons, are then transferred to specialized treatment facilities, minimizing the risk of harmful substances spreading into the environment.

Beyond increasing forest cover, these newly planted trees aid in restoring natural habitats, providing living environments for diverse plant and animal species, and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. The campaign has fostered strong community engagement, becoming a trusted platform for universities, schools, hospitals, local youth unions, and various community organizations. A Biti's representative highlighted the campaign's role as a bridge, enabling the company to collaborate with consumers on practical environmental actions. "From every battery handed in, each customer joins us in spreading a sustainable, responsible lifestyle within the community", the representative stated.