Danger warning over incorrect waste disposal
Sunderland residents have been given a reminder in relation to their wheelie bins as the last few weeks have seen a range of incorrect items placed in recycling bins and a fire breaking out at a recycling centre.
Clothing, nappies, food – and even a lawnmower – were found at the city’s recycling centre after blue bins had been collected.
Meanwhile, a fire recently started at J&B Recycling in Hartlepool whilst workers were processing kerbside waste from Sunderland and upon investigation, it was clear that a battery was the cause.
Fortunately, workers were able to put the fire out quickly and safely before any major harm was done, but now people are being reminded that batteries and other waste must bed isposed of properly.
Deputy leader of Sunderland City Council, Cllr Paul Stewart, said: “Contamination from things mistakenly put in blue bins, like carrier bags or food waste, results in material which could otherwise have been recycled having to be disposed of.
“It is important to remember that ion and portable batteries are not safe for wheeled bins because of the risk of fire. Instead they can be disposed of at your nearest battery bank or supermarket that offers battery recycling.
“In addition to fire hazards, which can be caused by putting old batteries in the wrong bins, the resources and chemicals found in them such as lead, cadmium, zinc, lithium and mercury can cause harm to the environment. We are calling on everyone to do their bit for the city and the planet by making sure they only put the right things in their recycling bins and if in doubt, leave it out.”