Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Fire Hazards from Discarded Lithium-ion Batteries and Power Banks

Questions:

Mr Victor Lye. To ask the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether the Ministry has studied the extent to which discarded lithium-ion batteries and power banks may cause fires within the municipal waste stream, including in (i) rubbish chutes, (ii) refuse collection vehicles and (iii) waste compaction systems; and (b) whether additional incident tracking or safeguards are being considered for high density housing estates to address such risks.

Answer:

Improper disposal of rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries and power banks in the municipal waste stream can pose fire risks. The National Environment Agency (NEA) works closely with other organisations, such as the Singapore Civil Defence Force and the Town Councils, to develop preventive measures and monitor fire incidents. The public is reminded to recycle these items via the extended producer responsibility scheme for e-waste operated by ALBA E-Waste Smart Recycling Pte Ltd. 22

Since July 2025, NEA has stepped up public education efforts on proper handling of lithium-ion batteries and power banks for recycling. This includes the distribution of posters with messages on proper handling of batteries to Town Councils. The public is advised to tape the ends of rechargeable batteries and seal any leaking batteries in leak-proof containers or bags before placing them into designated e-waste bins. For damaged rechargeable batteries and high-capacity batteries, such as those from electric mobility devices that pose a higher risk of fire, the public should recycle them through ALBA’s e-waste collection drives, directly at ALBA’s depot or by contacting ALBA for doorstep collection.

We will continue to monitor the incidence of fires and assess whether further measures are necessary.