New Zealand waste and recycling experts are calling for clear leadership and a comprehensive national approach to the safe disposal of small batteries, warning that current systems are putting people, infrastructure and the environment at growing risk.
A new report commissioned by WasteMINZ and developed by Eunomia highlights a sharp increase in fires linked to small batteries, particularly lithium‑ion batteries, occurring in rubbish trucks, recycling facilities, transfer stations and scrapyards. These fires endanger workers and the public, damage critical infrastructure, disrupt waste services and release toxic pollutants into air and water.
Despite the growing risks, the report finds that councils, waste operators and communities are bearing the costs and consequences of battery disposal, even though they had no role in designing, importing or selling battery‑powered products. It also highlights that with no national direction, consumers are confused about how to safely dispose of their household batteries as each region deals with it differently.
“Small batteries are now everywhere in our daily lives, but our disposal systems haven’t kept pace,” said WasteMINZ chief executive Nic Quilty.
“The people dealing with the fires, the damage and the risk are not the ones responsible for the problem.”
The Environmental Scan report calls for the establishment of a national, cross‑sector governance group and the introduction of a mandatory product stewardship scheme for small batteries. This would ensure responsibility is shared fairly across the battery lifecycle, costs are covered at the source, and safe, consistent systems can be built nationwide.
The report also identifies significant gaps in data, noting that New Zealand currently lacks clear information on the quantity and chemistry of small batteries entering the market. This makes it difficult to design safe collection, storage and recycling systems.
In addition, the report highlights the need for clear, nationwide operating guidance, covering:
- use and handling of small batteries
- collection and storage practices
- management of damaged batteries
- fire prevention and response
- recycling and end‑of‑life pathways
- and consistent consumer education.
New Zealanders are using more battery‑powered products than ever before, including phones, power tools, toys, vapes, e‑bikes and everyday household items, many of which contain embedded, non‑removable batteries. However, disposal options remain fragmented, inconsistent and confusing for consumers.
“People want to do the right thing, but the system doesn’t make it easy,” said Nic.
“Without clear guidance and accessible options, batteries are still ending up where they shouldn’t, in recycling and rubbish bins, and that’s when fires happen.”
The report provides the first comprehensive picture of the small battery problem in Aotearoa New Zealand and provides recommendations for coordinated national action.
“This is the first step toward a safer, fairer system,” said Nic.
“With clear leadership and a national approach, these risks can be significantly reduced.”
ENDS
