Key Points
- Redbridge Council and East London Waste Authority (ELWA) are hosting a community awareness event for safe battery and vape disposal on Tuesday, 18 February, at The Exchange, Ilford.
- Fires at recycling and waste plants across the UK have been linked to incorrectly disposed batteries and vapes.
- Damaged batteries can overheat or ignite, posing significant fire risks, endangering lives, and causing financial damages.
- Chemicals in damaged batteries can harm the environment if not recycled properly.
- Residents are encouraged to recycle batteries at designated points, such as libraries, supermarkets, and vape shops, or use facilities like the Chigwell Road Reuse and Recycling Centre.
- Firefighters will attend the event to provide fire safety tips.
- Competitions and activities will be held to engage attendees and raise awareness.
How is Redbridge Council Addressing Battery and Vape Recycling Issues?
Redbridge Council has partnered with the East London Waste Authority (ELWA) to tackle fire risks and environmental harm caused by the improper disposal of batteries and vapes.
The council is urging residents to recycle batteries and vapes responsibly as part of their community awareness event marking International Battery Day on Tuesday, 18 February. The event will take place from 10am to 4pm on the second floor of The Exchange, Ilford, opposite TK Maxx.
According to Redbridge Council, batteries disposed of in household waste bins or recycling boxes can be crushed or punctured at waste facilities, leading to fires that pose a threat to lives, disrupt services, and incur significant financial losses.
Why Are Batteries and Vapes a Fire Hazard?
Improperly discarded batteries, including those found in vapes, can ignite if damaged during waste processing. This has resulted in fires at waste and recycling facilities across the UK, the council warns. Even when fires do not occur, batteries that are not recycled responsibly release harmful chemicals into the environment.
Firefighters from Ilford South Fire Station will be present at the event to provide safety tips and educate the public on fire prevention.
Where Can You Recycle Batteries and Vapes in Redbridge?
Redbridge residents are encouraged to use dedicated recycling points to dispose of batteries and vapes. Locations include:
- Seven Kings Library
- Redbridge Central Library
- Sainsbury’s Convenience Store, Gants Hill
- Chigwell Road Reuse and Recycling Centre (dedicated vape disposal bin available)
The council also recommends using the Recycle Now locator to find nearby recycling facilities.
What Can You Expect at the Awareness Event?
The event will feature:
- Information stands on safe battery and vape disposal.
- Activities and competitions to win rechargeable battery kits.
- Practical advice from the Neighbourhoods Team on reducing waste and switching to reusables.
For more information about recycling in Redbridge, visit the council’s website at Redbridge Council Recycling.
