Lithium-ion batteries tossed in the trash can spark fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities, a risk New Hanover County officials hope a new North Carolina law will help reduce. Starting Dec. 1, the law makes it illegal to put lithium-ion batteries in household trash or recycling.
The batteries power everyday items, from electric shavers and power tools to car keys, golf carts and disposable vapes. The average American home has about 40 objects powered by lithium-ion batteries, according to the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.
Joe Suleyman, New Hanover Countyâs director of recycling and solid waste, said the possibility of a battery fire is a constant concern at county facilities. âIf it gets to the landfill it creates a public safety risk,â Suleyman said. âHere at the recycling facility, just the loss of millions of dollars worth of equipment or possibly the loss of life is very concerning to us.â
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Author: Reyna Crooms, WECT News 6
Photo by Tyler Lastovich: