Optical mice- OK to put in garbage?

My optical mouse started acting up a while ago, so I just got a new
one. On the new one, there's a picture of a garbage can with an X
through it- I'm assuming I know what this means.

I'm just wondering, why wouldn't you be able to throw it in the
garbage? How can I ditch my old mouse, if they're not just being
neurotic?

My optical mouse started acting up a while ago, so I just got a new
one. On the new one, there's a picture of a garbage can with an X
through it- I'm assuming I know what this means.
I'm just wondering, why wouldn't you be able to throw it in the
garbage?

The rechargeable batteries must be recycled properly
since they're considered toxic waste.

--

-- mejeep deMeep ferret!

Would it not be powered off the USB?