Dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely to prevent fires
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) and the Fire and Rescue Services in Wales are urging people across the country to dispose of lithium-ion batteries safely, following several fires believed to have been caused by incorrectly discarded batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in mobile phones, laptops, e-bikes, and e-cigarettes, can pose a serious fire risk when thrown away with general waste. If damaged or crushed, they can release flammable electrolytes or enter a state of ‘thermal runaway’, leading to intense fires at waste sites.
Waste fires release harmful gases, and the resulting hazardous smoke can pose serious risks to both humans and the environment. Additionally, residues from burnt waste can pollute surface and groundwater, leading to long-term land contamination that is costly and challenging to remediate.
Nia Brunning, Waste Regulation & Enforcement Team Leader at NRW, said:
“We have seen several waste site fires across Wales in the last year, with lithium-ion batteries being a likely cause in many cases. These fires not only damage the environment by releasing dangerous gases but also put local communities and emergency services at risk.
“To help prevent fires, we urge people to dispose of lithium-ion batteries correctly. Where it is safe and easy to do so, remove batteries from electrical items before recycling them. Many councils offer kerbside battery collection as part of household recycling services, or you can take them to designated recycling points at supermarkets, electrical retailers, and household recycling centres.”
For more information on how to dispose of batteries safely, visit your local council’s website or search for nearby battery collection points.
For more information and advice on keeping safe from fire, please visit: