The Victorian Government has announced the expansion of 50 battery recycling collection points across the state in an effort to make battery disposal safer and easier.
Local councils and registered charities are receiving funding to create new battery drop-off points and upgrade 17 existing sites to handle more batteries.
More than 30 of these drop-off locations will be in regional Victoria, ensuring communities across the state have access to more convenient disposal options.
Victorian Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the benefit of recycling batteries is twofold.
Batteries need to go to specialist battery recyclers equipped to handle them because they can ignite under pressure in rubbish trucks or when damaged.
Additionally, recycling batteries diverts hazardous materials from landfills and allows for the reuse of valuable metals such as copper, nickel, and steel in new products.
“We’re making it safer and easier to dispose of batteries, reducing fire risks and protecting our environment from harmful chemicals,” Dimopoulos said.
State Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison echoed the importance of safe battery disposal.
“By expanding battery recycling collection points, we will keep workers and families safe from fire risks,” she said.
The Victorian Government’s ‘Small Acts Big Impact’ campaign is supporting families to recycle correctly by reminding households that batteries and e-waste do not belong in kerbside bins.
Victorians can find their nearest battery recycling location at recyclemate.com.au.
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