Fire risk is front of mind during summer but did you know you might be creating a fire risk by disposing of batteries in
your household waste?
Council’s Solid Waste Manager Mark Lucas says when batteries are put in the rubbish or recycling, they end up in the
landfill where they can create a fire risk. “As all of the waste is compacted either in a collection truck, transfer
station or landfill there is a potential that this will cause sparks and start a fire, posing a risk to staff and the
environment,” Mark said.
“Even if they don’t cause a fire, old batteries contain chemicals and other materials that are harmful to the
environment. They take over 100 years to break down, so we do not want them in the landfill at all. Also, as all
batteries are recyclable, and in Marlborough we recycle batteries, there is no reason for them to go to landfill in the
first place,” he said.
Batteries are found in all manner of gadgets, toys, power tools, phones, laptops and many other devices. “When it’s time
to dispose of a battery, don’t throw it out - bring it to one of Council’s small battery recycling bins,” Mark said.
“There is no charge to drop off batteries at any of our collection points - the costs are covered by your rates. If you
have vehicle batteries or damaged small batteries, please take them straight to the Hazardous Waste Centre on Wither
Road in Blenheim, opposite the Resource Recovery Centre.”
Some helpful tips:Use rechargeable batteries instead of single-use ones where possibleSell or donate unwanted, battery-powered electronic items instead of throwing them away
There are a number of sites where you can drop off used batteries. Go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/recycling-and-waste/hazardous-waste/dry-cell-and-small-batteries to find the location nearest to you.