Do hybrid batteries ultimately pollute more than combustible engine cars?

[HoustonHybridFan]

Are hybrid vehicle batteries ultimately more polluting (when disposed of) than combustible engine vehicles are during their own lives? I was recently told that they are. :-(

[Kyla]

I was trying to find some of the same info. Anytime you manufacture anything it's going to be \"bad\" for the environment. But from what I saw, manufacturing is only a small part of the effects of the environment - and most of it comes from emissions not making the battery.