Batteries could leak harmful chemicals or spark fires in kerbside rubbish or recycling bins. Photo: 123RF
New high-tech battery recycling units are now available at three Lower Hutt locations, as part of a council-led trial.
The units - fitted with heat sensors and fire suppression systems - aim to make it safer and easier for people to recycle household batteries.
They can take common types like AA, AAA, lithium and rechargeable tool batteries - provided they are under five kilograms.
Hutt City Council head of climate, waste and resource recovery Jörn Scherzer with a recycling unit. Photo: Supplied/Hutt City Council
Hutt City Council head of climate, waste and resource recovery Jörn Scherzer warned batteries should never go in kerbside rubbish or recycling bins, as they could leak harmful chemicals or spark fires.
"Even small batteries can cause big problems, if they're thrown out the wrong way," he said. "This service makes it easier to do the right thing,"
The battery units will be clearly marked and located at the War Memorial Library, Eastbourne Neighbourhood Hub and Naenae Neighbourhood Hub.
The trial is part of wider efforts to reduce waste, with the batteries exported to certified recycling facilities in Japan and South Korea.
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