# Battery fires at UK recycling centres cost £1bn a year, data reveals

New figures show that fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries in UK recycling centres cause an estimated £1 billion in annual damages. Improperly disposed batteries in waste streams ignite during processing, creating safety hazards and major financial strain on the recycling industry. The findings highlight the urgent need for better battery disposal practices and public awareness.

**Importance:** 4/5

## Sources

### World
- [The Guardian World](https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/aug/22/lithium-battery-fires-waste-recycling-centres-vapes-uk) — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 06:00:57 GMT