Campbelltown CRC chosen to trial safe disposal of embedded batteries

Published on 30 October 2024

Campbelltown is one of twenty-one NSW Community Recycling Centres (CRC) who have been chosen to participate in a new embedded battery trial.

Led by NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), this trial is set to help households dispose of problematic embedded batteries found in wireless household products, light up toys and disposable vapes.

Campbelltown CRC will have designated bins allowing people to properly and safely dispose of embedded battery products, free of charge.

“It’s important that we educate residents on the environmental impact of incorrectly disposing of batteries in our red and yellow kerbside bins, and reduce the risk of fires in our bins, waste trucks and local waste facilities.” Mayor Darcy Lound said.

“We are proud to partner with the NSW EPA to make it easier for our community to safely and correctly dispose of problematic embedded batteries found in many common household items.” Cr Lound said.

Products accepted as part of the embedded batteries trial:

• Bluetooth speakers and headphones
• Electric toothbrushes
• E-scooters, e-bikes and hover boards
• Flashing/light up toys – particularly wands or other hard plastic products
• Personal care devices (e.g. shavers)
• Powerpacks and portable charging devices
• Remote controlled and ride-on toys
• Vacuum cleaners (cordless hand-held and robotic)
• Vapes
• Wearable devices such as smart watches, trackers and medical aids.

This trial will run until September 2026 and aims to combat the rising number of battery-related fires across the state.