Lithium-Ion Battery Disposal Linked to Recycling Center Fires in Japan, Ireland, UK, and Romania; No Injuries Reported
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A series of major fires have occurred at recycling and waste management facilities across several countries, frequently linked to improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries. In Japan, a fire broke out on April 14, 2025, at a waste processing facility in Oguchi, Aichi Prefecture, attributed to the ignition of a lithium-ion battery during compression of waste. The incident resulted in the indefinite suspension of operations, with no injuries reported. Nagoya reported that annual fires at one facility dropped from over 40 to 2 following the introduction of dedicated battery collection.
Japanese authorities, including the Environment Ministry, have issued warnings urging the public not to mix lithium-ion batteries with other types of waste, as these batteries can ignite when compressed or damaged. Experts emphasize that lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in combustible, non-combustible, bulky, or plastic waste streams, and should not be crushed. Municipalities have implemented battery collection programs to address the issue.
In Ireland, a major fire broke out at Thornton's Civic Amenity Centre in Dunboyne, County Meath, around 10pm on April 17, 2025. The fire was brought under control by local fire services, with no injuries or foul play reported. Residents were advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed due to smoke. Another overnight fire occurred at a recycling facility in Knockgriffin, Midleton, County Cork, leading to road closures and ongoing on-site monitoring.
In Derbyshire, UK, a discarded battery is believed to have caused a major fire at a recycling plant in Ilkeston. Fire authorities and local councils have reiterated the importance of recycling batteries and rechargeable devices at designated centers to prevent fires caused by damage or puncture during waste processing.
In Ştefăneştii de Jos, Ilfov County, Romania, a large fire affected approximately 400 square meters of a recycling center, with 11 fire engines responding and no casualties reported. Across all incidents, authorities are emphasizing the need for increased public awareness and adherence to proper battery disposal protocols to mitigate fire risks at waste and recycling facilities.
An investigation is underway into a major fire at Thornton’s Civic Amenity Facility in Dunboyne. Meath fire crews and recycling staff worked through the night to control the blaze. Foul play is not suspected.
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A major fire at the Thornton Recycling Centre in Dunboyne was still smouldering this morning.
Three units from Meath County Council fire brigade fought the blaze which broke out at around 10pm on Thursday night.
📸Alan Betson
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