Government-backed battery recycling scheme B-cycle has launched nationwide, aimed at combating a growing waste stream. 

Research indicates there are as many as 150 million loose or removable used batteries stored in homes across the country, used in tools, toys, wristwatches and remote controls. The program aims to prevent 90 per cent of those from reaching landfill.

B-cycle’s website will help Australians identify their nearest drop-off point where used batteries can be taken for collection. They will then be recycled into things like paint, computer parts and metal tools. 

Currently, the network boasts 2351 drop-off points with another 1200 to come on stream during the coming weeks. Retail stores including Aldi, Bunnings, Officeworks and Woolworths, along with community organisations such as Lions Club will act as collection points.

Trevor Evans, the assistant minister for waste reduction and environmental management noted that the Australian Government has invested $1 million for the Battery Stewardship Council to establish and launch B-cycle, the new national recycling scheme for batteries.

“All Australians can help Australia move to a circular economy in which we routinely recycle and reuse our waste resources by taking their used batteries including household batteries, power tool batteries, camera batteries, and e-bike batteries to participating drop off points,” he added.

“With B-cycle, consumers will be able to access our accredited network of battery drop off points and be confident their batteries are being safely recycled,” said Libby Chaplin, CEO at B-cycle.

The B-cycle scheme founded by the not-for-profit organisation, Battery Stewardship Council, is supported by the Commonwealth and all State and Territory Governments, authorised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), and funded by the Federal government and the battery industry.