Laois people return only half of their batteries for recycling

IN 2025, the people of Laois recycled the equivalent of 16 batteries per household, matching the national average of 16; this data comes on foot of new information that reveals that only half of household batteries sold are making their way back for recycling each year.

To support a nationwide new year clear-out, Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland plans to deliver one million blue battery recycling boxes to homes nationwide throughout January in an effort to curb waste. The boxes can be returned for free at participating retailers or local recycling centres.

The initiative is urging people to use this month to recycle any used batteries and unwanted small electrical items rather than throw them out. ‘‘As people make space for new gifts received at Christmas, we are asking people in Laois to plan an e-waste and battery clear-out,’’ said Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.

“As well as providing a handy QR code that connects you to a map of hundreds of local drop-off points, our blue battery boxes are a simple but powerful reminder that batteries should never go in household bins. Returning for recycling ensures the safe recovery and reuse of the materials they contain.” In regards to small electronic items, 2024 figures from WEEE Ireland demonstrate 40 per cent of Ireland’s annual small electronic gift and toy purchases happening in the festive period, but just 30 per cent of these are returned to the circular economy for recycling. Recycling rates for electronic toys such as gaming consoles, e-scooters and battery-operated action figures are even lower, dropping to just ten per cent.

Every home in Ireland can make a difference. Batteries don’t belong in the bin – they belong in recycling. When we dispose of them incorrectly, we risk fires and environmental pollution.

More information on WEEE Ireland’s network of free collection points across local authority civic amenity centres and retailers is available at weeeireland.ie