New high-tech battery recycling units with heat sensor monitoring and fire suppression systems are now available at three Hutt City Council locations. They’re part of a new trial to help people recycle household batteries safely and easily.

The initiative started after Eastbourne Neighbourhood Hub started collecting used batteries in a bucket. While well-intentioned, it wasn’t the safest way to handle this waste.

Council’s Head of Climate, Waste and Resource Recovery Jörn Scherzer says the new units are a big step up.

"They’re designed to keep people and buildings safe while giving the community a convenient way to recycle batteries."

The battery units will be clearly marked and located at:

• War Memorial Library
• Eastbourne Neighbourhood Hub
• Naenae Neighbourhood Hub

Scherzer says batteries can be recycled during normal hub opening hours.

"You can drop off most household batteries, like AA, AAA, lithium, and even rechargeable tool and phone batteries. Just make sure each battery is under 5kg.

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He warns that batteries should never go in kerbside rubbish or recycling bins. They can leak harmful chemicals or start fires in trucks and landfills.

"Even small batteries can cause big problems if they’re thrown out the wrong way. This service makes it easier to do the right thing," says Scherzer.

Phoenix Recycling Group manage the high tech units which have wireless heat sensors which are monitored 24/7 as well as a built in fire suppression system. Similar units are already in use at local DIY stores and provided by other Councils in their respective facilities.

The collected batteries are sorted and exported under Environmental Protection Authority permits to certified recycling facilities in Japan and South Korea.

The initiative supports Hutt City Council’s wider efforts to reduce waste and avoid valuable resources going to landfill. If it goes well, more battery recycling units may be added at other Council facilities.

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