Just half of household batteries sold in Ireland are being recycled each year, according to new data from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland. The figures highlight a growing challenge as old devices are replaced with new gifts over the holiday season.
WEEE Ireland said almost half of all household battery purchases occur during the Christmas shopping period, yet recycling rates remain low. To address the problem, the e-waste recycling scheme is delivering one million blue battery recycling boxes to homes this month, making it easier for households to dispose of used batteries safely. The boxes can be returned free of charge at participating retailers or local recycling centres.
Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland, urged the public to take action. “As space is made for new gifts, now is the ideal time to carry out a battery and e-waste clear-out,” he said. “As well as providing a handy QR code that connects you to a map of hundreds of local drop-off points, our blue battery boxes are a simple but powerful reminder that batteries should never go in household bins. Returning for recycling ensures the safe recovery and reuse of the materials they contain.”
The data also shows that last year, 40% of small electronic gifts and toys were purchased over the Christmas period, but only 30% of those items were returned for recycling. Recycling rates for electronic toys, including gaming consoles, e-scooters, and battery-operated action figures, are even lower, at just 10%. Experts warn this leaves millions of unused, broken, or obsolete toys stored in homes or discarded incorrectly in household bins.
Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Alan Dillon, said every household has a role to play in reducing environmental risks. “Batteries don’t belong in the bin—they belong in recycling. When we dispose of them incorrectly, we risk fires and environmental pollution,” he said. “This January, WEEE Ireland is delivering one million battery boxes to households. Let’s use them. Collect every old battery from toys, decorations, and devices, and return them to your local retailer or recycling centre. It’s free, safe, and it protects our environment. Together, we can keep dangerous chemicals out of landfill and rare materials in circulation. Let’s make 2026 about responsibility and care for each other.”
The nationwide initiative comes as authorities encourage citizens to take part in a New Year clear-out, ensuring old batteries and small electronics are disposed of properly. By participating, households can prevent harmful chemicals from entering landfills and support the circular economy by returning valuable materials for reuse.
