Key Facts
• June 25, Ministry of Internal Affairs announced findings on lithium-ion battery disposal.
• 2,900 lithium-ion batteries analyzed from 43 cities’ non-combustible waste.
• Common items: heated tobacco devices, mobile phones, portable batteries, electric razors, vacuums.
• Fire incidents in waste facilities caused by battery disposal are increasing.
• 4-5% of collected batteries are incinerated, landfilled, or stockpiled by municipalities.
• Challenges: financial burden, lack of disposal contractors, improper storage methods.
• Ministry requests manufacturers to expand voluntary collection of battery-related products.
• Calls for better municipal waste management and public awareness on battery disposal.
• Collaboration with Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and Ministry of Environment proposed.
Summary
The Ministry of Internal Affairs in Japan has highlighted growing concerns over the improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries, which have led to frequent fire incidents in waste facilities. A recent analysis of 2,900 batteries from 43 cities revealed common disposal of items like mobile phones and portable batteries. Municipalities face challenges such as financial strain and lack of disposal contractors, with many resorting to incineration or stockpiling. To address this, the Ministry has urged manufacturers to expand voluntary collection programs and called for improved municipal waste management and public awareness. Collaboration with other government bodies aims to ensure safer and more efficient battery disposal practices.
