In the UK, there is a projected 71% increase in fires caused by discarded batteries starting in 2022. This rise is attributed to the growing number of lithium-ion batteries being disposed of in the trash due to the popularity of disposable e-cigarettes and other battery-powered portable devices.
A recent study by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) revealed that over the past year, there have been more than 1,200 fires in waste systems due to an increase in the improper disposal of these devices in household garbage bins (compared to 700 cases in 2017). The organization has partnered with the campaign group ‘Recycle Your Electricals’ to raise awareness about this issue.
Phil Clark from the NFCC warns, “Fires caused by improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries are a looming disaster. The number of incidents is on the rise, but they can be prevented by ensuring correct and careful disposal.”
Lithium batteries are now found in a variety of common products, such as wireless headphones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, and disposable e-cigarettes. If not recycled, these batteries can become damaged in waste trucks and facilities, potentially leading to fires in garbage trucks and waste centers throughout the UK.
Damaged batteries pose a significant risk to the public, waste handlers, and firefighters as they can cause uncontrollable fires due to their ability to generate oxygen and prolong the burning process.
Scott Butler, executive director of Recycle Your Electricals, emphasizes the importance of responsibly disposing of electronic products and batteries to avoid preventable and costly fires. He urges individuals to utilize designated recycling facilities instead of throwing these items in the trash.
Butler adds, “As the number of products containing lithium-ion batteries increases and battery-related fires become more prevalent, it is crucial to act decisively to reduce air pollution and safeguard local communities and emergency responders.” Waste Officer.
He concludes, “By discarding electronic items and batteries in the trash, we are squandering valuable resources essential for our economy. I implore everyone to refrain from tossing these items and always opt for recycling. Visit ‘Recycle Your Electricals’ to locate the nearest drop-off point for proper disposal.”
Source: www.theguardian.com
