The Hidden Dangers of Improper Battery Disposal
Every day, thousands of batteries are thrown away across the UK, but what many people don’t realise is just how dangerous improper battery disposal can be. From causing devastating fires to harming the environment, discarded batteries have become a serious problem. At Cheshire Demolition, we believe it’s vital to raise awareness and encourage safe recycling practices to protect both people and the planet.
The Scale of the Battery Waste Problem
Recent findings from the Environmental Services Association (ESA) highlight the urgency of this issue. In 2024 alone, six billion batteries were discarded across the UK. That’s around 3,000 every single minute. Shockingly, more than 1.1 billion were still left inside everyday electrical items like toothbrushes, vapes, and mobile phones.
The consequences are alarming. According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), there were over 1,200 battery-related fires in waste facilities or collection vehicles between 2023 and 2024 – a 71% increase on the previous year. Costs linked to these incidents have rocketed from £150 million in 2021 to over £1 billion today.
Improper disposal of batteries isn’t just costly, it’s dangerous.
Why Batteries Cause Fires
Batteries, particularly lithium-ion types, are designed to store energy. When they are crushed, punctured, or exposed to heat during waste processing, they can short-circuit and ignite. In collection trucks and recycling centres, even a single damaged battery can spark a fire, quickly spreading through tonnes of waste. These fires endanger staff, damage essential facilities, and contribute to carbon emissions. It’s a risk that can easily be avoided with proper disposal.
The Local Impact and Responsibility
Improper battery disposal isn’t only a national issue; it directly affects local communities here in the North West. Fires put waste workers in danger and disrupt recycling operations. Toxic leaks from batteries can also harm soil and waterways.
As a trusted business based in Macclesfield, we are committed to promoting safe and responsible recycling practices. We know that taking care of the environment begins with small but important steps, such as disposing of batteries correctly.
How to Dispose of Batteries Safely
The good news is that safe battery disposal is simple. Here are some practical tips:
- • Remove batteries from electrical devices before throwing them away.
- • Never put batteries in household bins or skips. Always hand them to a driver or leave them at the side of the skip for safe disposal.
- • Recycle batteries at approved collection points, often found at local recycling centres, supermarkets, or electronics retailers.
- • Keep used batteries in a secure container at home until you’re ready to recycle them.
By following these steps, households and businesses can dramatically reduce the risk of fires and protect the environment.
Cheshire Demolition’s Commitment to Safe Recycling
At Cheshire Demolition, we don’t just supply quality reclaimed and new building materials; we’re also dedicated to sustainable waste management. We encourage all our customers to handle waste responsibly, including the correct disposal of batteries.
By supporting safe recycling practices, we help protect our community, safeguard our workers, and contribute to a cleaner, safer environment. Together, we can protect both our community and the environment.
Open Monday–Friday: 8am–5pm, Saturday: 8am / Gates close 1pm.
Telephone: 01625 424433
72 Moss Lane, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 7TT
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