Wellington Shire Council is reinforcing batteries cannot be disposed of in kerbside bins under any circumstance, after a nationwide increase in battery-related fires in waste collection vehicles, landfills and recycling sorting facilities.
Fast becoming the most significant issue in the waste management sector, incorrectly disposing of batteries causes significant risk to human life, as well as damage to recycling sorting machinery, landfill faces, garbage trucks and the environment.
Batteries’ tendency to combust and release toxic substances when disposed of incorrectly puts Council’s staff, contractors and facilities at risk.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye pleaded with residents to do the right thing and take used batteries to a drop-off point for recycling.
“By disposing of batteries correctly, you’re giving them a second life and recycling precious materials, while keeping our truck drivers and waste workers safe,” Cr Bye said.
