New battery recycling contract signed
Buller District Council (BDC) has entered into a partnership with Mitre 10 and Smart Environmental Ltd (SEL) to improve battery recycling across the district.
BDC currently has four battery collection points: the Westport and Reefton Transfer Stations, the Karamea Resource Recovery Centre and Disposal Facility, and the Maruia Landfill.
Mitre 10 already operates a battery recycling programme, which will now extend to collection at the Westport and Reefton Transfer Stations. Previously, BDC’s battery recycling service was managed by Upcycle.
The programme accepts residential household batteries, including domestic and power tool batteries, and is aimed at supporting residents to dispose of batteries safely and sustainably, says Group Manager Infrastructure Services Anthony Blom.
“For our part, BDC will fund freight costs to transport batteries from Westport to Christchurch, up to a maximum of $4,000 per annum. People are keen to do the right thing and recycle their batteries, where in the past they may have disposed of these hazardous items by burying them or sending them to landfill,” Mr Blom says.
“BDC is committed to supporting good environmental practices, and we welcome this new arrangement, which will be reviewed quarterly to ensure it remains fit for purpose.”
Car batteries are not included in this programme, and it is not intended for commercial quantities.
Mitre 10 will work closely with national recycler Phoenix Recycling to ensure a safe and consistent process that diverts batteries from landfill. Batteries will be collected, sorted by type, and stored in appropriate containers.
Mitre 10 will also act as a drop-off point, with suitable storage provided at its locations for retail customers to dispose of unwanted batteries free of charge.
SEL staff will manage collection points at the Westport and Reefton Transfer Stations, and transport collected batteries to Mitre 10.
Note: Rechargeable batteries, lithium and phone batteries should have the terminals isolated prior to being dropped off. Do this by covering the positive (+) and negative (–) ends of the battery with non‑conductive tape, i.e. electrical tape, insulation tape, masking tape so all metal terminals are fully covered. This prevents batteries from overheating, sparking, or catching fire and helps keep recycling safe.
-ENDS-
For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz
Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.