Last year, we had several, avoidable fires in our recycling collection trucks. The fires were caused by batteries, partially full aerosol cans or household chemicals igniting.
When any of these items are tightly compacted within the back of a truck, fires can easily be ignited. Fires in rubbish trucks can cost a lot in terms of replacing the trucks and calling out emergency services. They also cause delays to waste services and, safety issues for our contractor staff.
Batteries can be taken to special locations for free recycling such as ALDI, OfficeWorks, Battery World, Woolworths & Bunnings.
Aerosol cans can only go into the recycling bin if they are completely empty. Remember to separate the lid of the can from the body, which is likely to be made of plastic and not aluminium.
Most household chemicals can be brought to a Detox Your Home event run by Sustainability Victoria and Council. Knox’s Detox Your Home day will be held on Sunday, 21 May 2023. Look out for further information on how to register for this event closer to the day.
To find out where other tricky items can be recycled, please visit recyclingnearyou.com.au
To remind yourself of what goes in your recycling bin, visit our website to find out where these items can be disposed of safely.
If you would like to learn more, please come and visit us at one of these upcoming, free events
- Ferntree Gully Library – Thursday 9 February 2022 – 1-2.45pm – Free waste education talk
- Knox Festival – Saturday, 4 March 2022 – 10am-5pm – Wally Tew Reserve, Ferntree Gully
- Orana Neighbourhood House Workshop – Wednesday, 29 March 2023 – 1-3pm – Free waste education talk
