Lithium battery disposal: Hidden hazards and how to stay safe

Annika Collins

October 10, 2023

Why lithium battery disposal matters

Lithium batteries power many of the devices we rely on every day, but they are also one of the fastest growing safety risks in the waste industry.

To better understand the scale of the issue, the recycle-more team attended RWM (Resource & Waste Management Expo) and a seminar titled “The Hidden Dangers of Lithium Battery Disposal.” The session explored the growing risks lithium batteries pose when disposed of incorrectly, particularly within household waste and recycling systems.

Before exploring the key takeaways from the seminar, it’s essential to understand the difference between lithium batteries and conventional batteries.

What are lithium batteries?

Lithium batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that use lithium as a key component in the electrochemical process. They are commonly found in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Unlike traditional alkaline batteries, lithium batteries provide higher energy density, a longer lifespan, and generally better performance.

The impact of consumer electronics on battery waste

With the increasing purchase of household technology, the seminar also highlighted the growing issue of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) items being incorrectly discarded in household bins. Many of these items contain hidden lithium batteries, which adds to the challenge of managing battery waste safely and effectively.

Disposable vapes: A major and growing concern

Disposable vapes have emerged as a particular concern. An estimated 5 million disposable vapes are discarded every week, contributing significantly to the lithium battery waste problem.

Grundon, a waste management company, reported that its operatives pick out 100–150 disposable vapes during a single eight-hour shift. Recycling each vape costs around 80p per unit, and many members of the public lack awareness or motivation to dispose of them correctly.

Limited disposal routes and the need for awareness

The seminar highlighted the need for more disposal routes for both businesses and households. There is also a strong call for increased national awareness and a government-led campaign to promote specific collection services for electrical items and battery-containing waste, including kerbside options.

The hidden dangers of lithium batteries

Lithium batteries pose serious hazards when damaged or incorrectly handled. They can catch fire due to:

• Thermal runaway
• Vapour cloud explosions
• Chemical exposure
• The ability to burn without oxygen and even continue burning underwater

Once ignited, a recycling facility can be engulfed in flames within 60 seconds, with fires lasting six to seven days, causing significant harm to local communities and the environment.

Why proper lithium battery Disposal matters

The seminar shed light on the urgent need for improved awareness, safer collection methods, and better processing of lithium batteries. As battery powered devices become more common, the risks associated with improper disposal continue to grow.

Addressing this challenge requires collaboration between government, businesses, and the public to ensure lithium batteries and battery containing devices are disposed of safely and responsibly.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, Annika Collins, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Recycle More, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.