Cowra Community Recycling Centre has been named one of 13 new sites across NSW to join the Environment Protection Authority’s battery recycling trial, aimed at reducing the growing threat of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries.
With items such as vapes, headphones, e-scooters, smart watches and even toothbrushes increasingly powered by embedded batteries, the risk of combustion in households and waste facilities has become a serious concern.
Already in 2025, Fire and Rescue NSW has attended nearly 200 battery fires across the state.
Cowra Fire and Rescue Captain, Stephen Overman, said the dangers of battery fires should not be underestimated, especially with cheaper imported products.
“They are extremely dangerous,” Mr Overman said.
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“We have been very, very lucky in Cowra that we haven’t had issues with them.
“The main concern with these lithium-ion batteries is the little e-bikes and things like that, particularly ones people are buying from Temu and cheaper overseas shops.
“There’s no guarantee on them, no way to know how well they’ve been tested or checked.
“At least buying from a reputable dealer, like a bike shop or even a Big W, gives a bit more quality assurance,” he said.
Mr Overman advised against overnight charging and urged residents to take simple precautions.
“The best thing to do with your battery scooters and bikes is not to charge them overnight, but instead when people are monitoring them,” he said.
“Don’t leave them in your house charging with no one home, don’t have too much clutter around the item you’re charging and always use power points in good working condition.”
He also highlighted the importance of inspecting equipment regularly.
“Always check the battery itself and the charging cord you’re using,” Mr Overman said.
“If the battery shows any damage at all, if there’s a dent in it or it’s starting to swell, you need to dispose of it properly by taking it to the tip.
“The Cowra Community Recycling Centre has a special place for batteries to be disposed of.”
The EPA’s embedded batteries trial first launched in September 2024 with 21 councils participating.
With the addition of Cowra and 12 others, more than 30 councils across NSW are now offering free drop-off and recycling of battery-powered items.
The trial will continue until September 2026.
So far, more than 9000 kilograms of battery waste has been collected and safely processed, helping prevent landfill fires and recover valuable materials.
EPA Chief Executive, Tony Chappel, said the trial was a vital step in tackling a statewide safety and environmental issue.
“We’re leading the way to combat these risks by introducing a product stewardship scheme, but we also need to make sure battery-powered items are being managed at the end of their usable life,” Mr Chappel said.
“With more than 30 councils now pitching in to collect this problematic waste, we’re making it easier for people to keep batteries out of the bin, so we can protect our environment, increase our recycling rates and keep communities safe.”
The Cowra Community Recycling Centre is ready to accept unwanted items with built-in batteries, from e-scooters and vapes to speakers and smart devices.
Locals are encouraged to check what unused or damaged items they have at home and make the most of the free disposal program.
By joining the trial, Cowra is contributing to a safer future for households, waste workers and the environment.
With simple steps like proper disposal, careful charging and choosing quality products, the community can play its part in reducing the risk of dangerous and difficult-to-control fires.
