No doubt lithium batteries have superior performance regarding our electronic devices. However, the
handling of lithium batteries requires additional care and attention. There is a high level of risk if
batteries are mishandled.
It may cause an adverse effect on the environment, pollution, and high risk of fire outbreak. On this
note, we shall review the best way to dispose of lithium batteries in the UK and other things you should
know about Lithium batteries.
What You Should Do?
Make sure batteries are removed from the devices and separated
Contact a professional to remove lithium batteries if you are unable to separate them from the
device
Then insulate the battery terminals to prevent short circuit
Package batteries into boxes or UN-approved barrels, separate each layer with dry sand.
What You Should Not Do?
Do not dispose of lithium batteries with your regular garbage
Avoid throwing out of batteries that may result in short-circuiting other items.
Do not place batteries on any products or objects that are not designed for lithium batteries
disposal
Do not place a large number of batteries together without segregation
Do not store or safely discarded lithium batteries inside your apartment.
Why You Should Not Treat Lithium Batteries like Industrial Waste
You may be wondering why lithium batteries found in electronics and e-waste can’t be disposed of with your regular waste. Lithium
batteries contain several harmful chemicals that are hazardous to human health. Poor disposal may
result in grievous consequences like fire outbreak, destruction of materials, environmental pollution and
more.
Best Methods to Dispose of Lithium Batteries
Below are some significant ways to dispose of lithium batteries in the UK;
Recycling
It is important to dispose of lithium batteries for recycling purposes. This is essential because many old
batteries end up in a landfill. Recycling restricts batteries from going to landfills and also recover
valuable metals like cobalt, nickel and silver. This further reduces the production of new materials that
may result in carbon emissions.
Household Waste Recycling Centres
You can also dispose of lithium batteries at household waste recycling centres like battery retailer shops,
pharmacies, and supermarket. They often provide battery recycling bins.
E-Waste Collection Point
You can also drop lithium batteries in e-waste drop off location. Numerous local councils collect
batteries in your doorstep. You can check with your local district council or waste removal company to get more information.