How should I dispose of batteries and electrical waste?

Do not put batteries, electrical appliances or other electronic waste into ordinary household rubbish or mixed recycling. These items often need separate treatment & batteries can create a fire risk in bins or collection vehicles.

Safe disposal options

• Take household batteries to a suitable retail collection point or recycling facility.
• Use a council or approved waste service for small electrical items.
• Ask a retailer whether take-back is available when replacing an appliance.
• Use an authorised facility for larger items, such as a broken microwave or television.
• Follow any development-specific instructions for electronic waste collections.

Do not leave batteries, damaged power packs or electrical items unattended in the bin store. If a battery is swollen, leaking or overheating, avoid handling it unnecessarily & seek the relevant safety advice.

If your building provides a dedicated collection point, use it only for the item types shown on the label.

For local information, check the relevant council’s waste guidance in England or MyWaste Ireland in Dublin.