J&B Recycling Knowledge

Batteries are now embedded in almost every aspect of modern life. While small household batteries power everyday items such as toys and remote controls, many appliances, vehicles and tools rely on far larger and more powerful battery systems. These larger and specialist batteries present very different risks - and require very different disposal methods.

Understanding the distinction is essential, not only for environmental reasons but also for safety.

Why larger batteries pose a greater risk

Larger batteries, particularly rechargeable and lithium-based types, store significantly more energy than standard household batteries. If they are damaged, crushed, punctured or exposed to heat, they can overheat, ignite or explode. This makes them one of the most common causes of fires in waste collection vehicles and recycling facilities.

Unlike household batteries, which are often collected through widely available drop-off points, specialist batteries must be handled through controlled and compliant routes to prevent serious incidents.

Batteries in appliances and electrical equipment

Many modern appliances contain built-in rechargeable batteries. Common examples include cordless vacuum cleaners, power tools, laptops, tablets, garden equipment and children’s ride-on toys. These batteries are not designed to be removed by users and should never be disposed of loose in household waste or recycling bins.

The correct route for these items is electrical recycling. Appliances should be taken to a designated WEEE recycling facility or returned through a retailer take-back scheme, where batteries can be safely removed and treated by trained operators. Disposing of the whole item ensures the battery is managed correctly and reduces the risk of fire during collection or processing.

Vehicle batteries

Car, van and leisure batteries are a completely different category again. These batteries typically contain corrosive acids and heavy metals such as lead, which are hazardous to both people and the environment if released.

Vehicle batteries should always be returned to garages, automotive retailers or licensed waste facilities authorised to accept them. Many suppliers operate take-back schemes when a new battery is purchased. These batteries should never be stockpiled at home or placed in skips, as leakage or damage can cause serious harm.

E-bike, scooter and mobility batteries

Batteries used in e-bikes, e-scooters and mobility aids are most commonly lithium-ion and represent one of the highest fire risks within the waste stream. Even when no longer holding charge, these batteries can remain volatile.

If a battery shows signs of damage, swelling or overheating, it should be kept away from flammable materials and disposed of as soon as possible through a specialist route. In many cases, the safest option is to contact the supplier or manufacturer for advice, as they may offer return or recycling schemes.

Commercial and industrial batteries

Businesses often generate battery waste from equipment such as backup power supplies, alarm systems, medical devices, warehouse equipment and machinery. Some of these batteries may be classified as hazardous waste and must be handled in line with specific regulatory requirements.

Businesses have a legal duty of care to ensure battery waste is stored safely, described accurately and transferred only to authorised waste carriers and facilities. Failure to do so can result in enforcement action, fines and significant safety risks.

The importance of getting it right

Incorrect battery disposal puts collection crews, recycling facility staff and members of the public at risk. Fires caused by batteries can lead to vehicle damage, site shutdowns and environmental harm, as well as disruption to essential waste services.

Correct disposal also allows valuable materials - including metals such as lithium, cobalt and lead - to be recovered and reused, reducing reliance on virgin resources and supporting a more circular economy.

If you’re unsure, seek advice

If you are uncertain about what type of battery you are dealing with, it is always better to ask before disposing of it. Household batteries, appliance batteries and vehicle batteries all follow different routes, and assumptions can lead to serious consequences.

For businesses, speaking to J&B Recycling can help ensure battery waste is managed safely, compliantly and in line with current legislation. Get in touch today.