Up and down the country fires are happening in the back of refuse and recycling vehicles, and at waste facilities due to the incorrect disposal of batteries. YouGov research has brought to light that only 43% of the public realise that if damaged, Lithium-ion batteries can spark fires. The waste industry and local authorities are calling on the public to recycle Lithium-ion batteries properly to prevent fires and preserve valuable resources.
Found in consumer gadgets and numerous household items, Lithium-ion batteries can become damaged in transit or by handling them and potentially cause fires when they are in flammable wastes (paper, plastics). Fires in waste vehicles have increased by over 30% since 2017 and one of the biggest reasons for this is Lithium-ion batteries which are thrown away.
Removing batteries from electronic devices and placing them into special containers which are available at the Household Waste and Recycling Centres (HWRCs) and local drop off points, is the key to ensuring that Lithium-ion batteries are safely and carefully recycled. Visit Recycle your electricals to find your nearest drop off point.
Did you know that leaving a battery in any device, however small can be as hazardous as leaving a smouldering BBQ in the waste – another source of waste fires. So remember next time you have a Lithium-ion battery to dispose of, dispose of it at your local drop off point or Household Waste and Recycling Centre.