Take charge of your lithium-ion battery waste

Published on 21 December 2022

Responsible disposal of household problem waste is easier than ever in Lake Macquarie following the installation of a new lithium-ion battery recycling drop-off point at the Awaba Community Recycling Centre (CRC).

The new service follows several incidents of fire damage to collection vehicles as a result of lithium-ion batteries being placed incorrectly in garbage bins, or hidden in bulky waste piles, and combusting when crushed.

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Waste Services Paul Collins said disposing of lithium-ion batteries correctly reduced the risk of damage to the community, Council staff, waste collection vehicles and the environment.

“Lithium-ion batteries can be dangerous, especially when exposed to heat or compression which can cause them to ignite,” he said.

“When disposing of lithium-ion batteries, people should ensure they tape over the terminals and drop them off at an appropriate recycling collection point to protect themselves and each other.”

More than 300 million batteries end up in landfill every year, which can contaminate groundwater with toxic substances.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said with Christmas fast approaching, it was important people recycled their old batteries responsibly.

“Portable devices like mobile phones, laptops and power tools are often gifted and replaced at this time of year, so it’s a timely reminder that these items, and especially their batteries, should be recycled correctly when it’s time for an upgrade,” she said.

Bunnings and Battery World stores also accept lithium-ion batteries for recycling.

Council has drop off facilities for other types of household batteries at libraries, the Works Depot at Boolaroo and the administration building in Speers Point.

The CRC is located at the Awaba Waste Management Facility. For more information visit lakemac.com.au/waste