Strathbogie Shire residents will soon have easier access to safe battery and e-waste recycling following the completion of upgrades at three local e-waste stations.
Strathbogie Shire Council has upgraded the stations at its busiest transfer stations – Euroa, Nagambie and Violet Town.
The project, which has received $20,660 in funding from the Victorian Government, will help improve access to safe recycling options for items that can pose a fire risk when placed in household bins.
Items such as mobile phones, headphones, electric toothbrushes, toys, power tools and laptops often contain embedded rechargeable batteries. When these items are placed in household bins, the batteries can be damaged or crushed during collection and processing,
potentially causing dangerous fires.
Mayor, Scott Jeffery said the campaign was a simple reminder that a small action could have a significant impact on community safety.
“Many people don’t realise that everyday electronic items contain rechargeable batteries that can cause fires when they’re thrown in household bins,” Mayor Jeffery said.
“Taking batteries and unwanted electronics to a designated drop-off point is a simple step that helps protect waste collection workers, recycling facilities and our broader community.
“By disposing of these items correctly, residents can help prevent fires, recover valuable materials and keep hazardous waste out of landfill.”
Fire Rescue Victoria estimates it attends around one battery-related fire every day, highlighting the growing importance of safe battery disposal.”
Residents can dispose of eligible e-waste at the Avenel, Nagambie, Euroa, Longwood and Violet Town transfer stations.
This project is supported by the Circular Economy Infrastructure Fund – Hazardous Waste Stream. The Fund is delivered by the Victorian Government under its circular economy plan, Recycling Victoria: a new economy.
