Final answer:
To properly manage used batteries, one should follow Directive 2006/66/EC by recycling or disposing of them in accordance with toxic waste guidelines, using rechargeable batteries to reduce environmental impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
The environmentally safe management of used batteries is crucial to prevent the harmful effects of toxic heavy metals on the environment. Directive 2006/66/EC of the European Union plays an important part in this by limiting the amount of cadmium in portable batteries. To ensure environmental safety, used batteries, such as lead storage batteries, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), and other types containing toxic substances, must be disposed of in accordance with toxic waste guidelines. Rechargeable batteries offer significant economic and environmental advantages, as they can be recharged numerous times, thus reducing manufacturing and disposal costs and lessening the environmental footprint. However, when disposing of batteries, it is essential that they are not ruptured or incinerated, and instead are recycled or disposed of properly, in line with government safety guidelines.