© ESABattery-related fires in UK waste facilities and collection vehicles have reached unprecedented levels, with more than 1,200 incidents reported in 2023/24 - a 71 per cent increase from the previous year, according to a new policy briefing from the Environmental Services Association (ESA). Modern lithium-ion batteries are particularly dangerous when damaged, with data-backed estimates suggesting they now cause nearly half of all waste fires in the UK. Collection infrastructure failuresCurrent collection systems for waste batteries and electrical devices are inadequate, with only 25 per cent of local councils voluntarily offering kerbside services. This approach could reduce waste fires from current levels to approximately 100 incidents per year, with capital expenditure equating to around 70 pence per household. It is therefore essential that a "central pot" for communications exists alongside producer-funded universal kerbside services.