ALERT: Major warning issued highlighting risks of not dumping vapes properly

Following a rise in fires caused by improperly discarded vapes, batteries and electronics, one of Ireland’s largest waste management operators has taken action. 

Clean Ireland Recycling have launched a public awareness campaign, urging people to correctly dispose of these items, which are being found in household wheelie bins, skips and public street bins. 

The company, based in Shannon Co Clare, says it has experienced several fires in its collection trucks and even damage at one of its depots. 

Items such as vapes, power banks, cordless power tools, e-bikes and e-scooters are increasingly appearing in municipal waste streams and are now the leading cause of fires in the waste management industry.

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The new Christmas STAR (Stop Think And Recycle) campaign highlights the urgent need for action and comes ahead of the festive and New Year period, when households typically dispose of old electronics and batteries while also bringing new ones into the home.

A dedicated resource has now been launched to provide guidance on locations for safely recycling batteries and electronic equipment, which can be accessed here. 

Managing Director of Clean Ireland Recycling, Brian Lyons explained that the sharp increase in batteries, vapes and electronics being disposed of in this manner is creating serious safety risks.

He said the improper disposal of these items “puts lives, property, the environment and businesses at risk." 

Mr Lyons urged the public not to dispose of batteries, vapes or electronic devices in household or public bins, but to bring them to designated WEEE/battery collection points.

He said many people do not realise how easily fires can start.

“A fire can begin when a battery is compacted or pierced in a bin lorry. If the casing cracks it can short-circuit, producing intense heat and sudden flames. Inside one of our trucks it can spread in seconds,” Mr Lyons explained.

“It only takes one vape or power bank to trigger a serious incident. We have had fires start while trucks were on the road, forcing crews to stop, isolate the fire and in conjunction with fire services, unload burning material to save the vehicle. There are far too many reports from around the country of waste transfer stations and recycling facilities experiencing fires caused by batteries and other electronics.”

Mr Lyons said preventing fires “starts with proper disposal” and that using the correct facilities helps protect homes, vehicles and recycling infrastructure.

The public can contact their local recycling centre or visit the dedicated webpage here for advice on safely disposing batteries and electronic waste.