BMRA Highlights Risks Associated with Improper E-Scrap Disposal

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) issued reminder highlighting the risks associated with placing electrical items in household waste bins and recycling boxes.

The improper disposal of waste electrical appliances in general waste and recycling boxes exposes waste sector workers to major risks including fire and contamination. Many of the electrical items contain lithium ion battery in them, which when tampered could explode or even cause fire. The recent fire incidents at waste collection sites were attributed to the presence of waste electrical items, it noted.

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The electrical devices contain harmful metals such as lead and mercury, which could leak out and cause soil and water pollution.

James Kelly, CEO, BMRA stated that electronic waste-one of the fastest growing waste streams in the UK, requires separate handling and treatment. The careless disposal poses risks not only to the environment, but also to the lives of waste workers, he noted. The responsible recycling of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) will ensure that more materials enter the circular economy, Kelly added.

BMRA urged households to keep hold of their WEEE until the current restrictions on movement are relaxed or removed, after which they could take their old electrical items to registered collection points.