When placed in kerbside bins, e-waste, including batteries, can lead to the costly and dangerous issue of smouldering loads inside trucks.
Compromised loads may need to be dumped roadside to prevent injury and a total loss of a waste truck, creating the potential for a catastrophic fire.
Mayor Daniel Mackrell said understanding how and why e-waste should be disposed of was critical.
“To protect our environment and recover valuable resources for reuse or upcycling, e-waste must be taken to a Resource Recovery Centre,” he said.
“Lithium batteries, in particular, are prone to starting fires in bins, trucks and landfill. I strongly encourage residents to dispose of these materials safely and for free at our centres.”
E-waste is growing three times faster than standard waste, and contains hazardous materials.
The Victorian Government has banned the waste from landfill, meaning it cannot go in any of the three kerbside bins the council offers.
Aside from regulations, Cr Mackrell highlighted the broader impact of waste truck fires.
“Every truck fire puts our drivers, emergency services and the community at risk. It also costs thousands of dollars in repairs and delays waste collection services,” he said.
“By disposing of e-waste correctly, residents can help prevent dangerous incidents and reduce unnecessary costs.”
Properly disposed of e-waste is dismantled, has hazardous materials removed, and valuable components are taken for reuse, supporting a circular economy.
For more information about waste disposal and council’s resource recovery centre locations, visit campaspe.vic.gov.au/RRC
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