Two separate battery fires in Lake Macquarie, New South Wales this week have reignited escalating concerns about the dangers of improper battery disposal.
Two households were put at risk following two incidents including after a lithium-ion battery for a remote-control car ignited in Terralba, as well as a battery in a bike pump which sparked in Kilbin Bay.
B-cycle, Australia’s national battery stewardship scheme, has long called for increased public awareness around safe battery recycling.
It states fires like the latest incidents in Lake Macquarie are increasing across Australia, highlighting an urgent need for greater public awareness about safe handling of lithium-ion batteries and their disposal.
B-cycle is the flagship initiative of the Battery Stewardship Council (BSC) which aims to build and sustain a strong battery stewardship community, supporting Australia’s transition to a circular economy.
The government-backed scheme facilitates safe and accessible battery recycling for consumers across metropolitan, regional, and remote areas.
In a statement, B-cycle said the cost of fires ultimately impacts councils and results in communities having increased rates.
It has urged communities not to dispose of batteries in kerbside bins but to recycle them safely at a convenient free drop-off location.
For more information, visit: bcycle.com.au/
Related stories:
ACCC opens public consultation on B-cycle’s bid to strengthen battery recycling scheme
B-cycle launches summer campaign to recycle batteries and reduce fire risk
B-cycle battery recycling scheme under review
