A new battery recycling scheme for South Kesteven is set to operate from mid-September.
The idea is to reduce the risk of fires in bin lorries, keep bin crews safe, support SKDC’s climate action goals and improve recycling.
Batteries and single use vapes will be collected where they are separated from regular waste and left in a clear, see-through bag on everyone’s regular bin day, whether it’s recycling or black bin week.
From Monday 16th September, householders will provide their own bags in a cost-efficient and sustainable method of ensuring the safety of crews – and reflects SKDC’s commitment to its Climate Change goals.
Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, Cllr Rhys Baker, said: “This council-wide initiative is another example of how this council is constantly reviewing our procedures to make sure we are providing a service that meets the needs of our residents.”
The new scheme involves converting vehicles and a public information campaign, funded from existing budgets.
In March 2023, a refuse vehicle was forced to eject its smoking and smouldering contents onto the ground in Ingoldsby.
So far, to keep bin crews and refuse centre workers safe, people have been asked to dispose of batteries in dedicated battery bins at retailers or their local household waste recycling centre.
All electrical items and batteries can continue to be disposed of at the Household Waste Recycling Centres. If batteries cannot be removed, from smaller electricals items such as toothbrushes, shavers, chargers and toys, these electricals should also be recycled separately.
Batteries can also be recycled in dedicated battery bins in many local retailers.
Details of Lincolnshire County Council's Household Waste Recycling Centres can be found online at www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/recycling-waste/find-recycling-centre
There is a handy link to find your nearest supermarket/hardware store disposal point: https://bit.ly/batterySKDC
Check you're putting the right thing in the right bin at home by visiting www.southkesteven.gov.uk/whichbin
