Key Points
- Built-in batteries in mobile chargers, heated-tobacco devices and electronics can ignite under pressure or impact, causing fires in garbage trucks and collection points.
- Many municipalities have changed or strengthened rules so that lithium-ion batteries are not mixed with burnable or non-burnable waste.
- Collection methods (drop-off points, hazardous waste, small-appliance recycling) vary by city. Always check your municipality’s latest rules.
Background
Lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday products such as smartphones, mobile chargers, heated-tobacco devices and cordless appliances. When crushed inside a collection truck or at a processing facility, they can short-circuit internally and catch fire. Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency and the Ministry of the Environment repeatedly warn against mixing batteries with general waste.
What Cities Are Doing (official announcements)
- Yokohama City: 横浜市、2025年12月からリチウムイオン電池等の分別収集を開始
- Kashiwa City: 【柏市】リチウムイオン電池の誤分別による火災が発生——有害ごみとしての正しい出し方を確認
- Okazaki City: 岡崎市｜リチウムイオン電池の正しい捨て方（3つの回収方法）
- Kawasaki City: 令和7年11月から川崎市でリチウムイオン電池等が「小物金属」収集に変更
- Adachi Ward: 足立区でごみ収集車両の火災発生——加熱式たばこのリチウムイオン電池が原因
- Sendai City: 仙台市：ライター・リチウムイオン電池の誤廃棄によるごみ収集車火災に注意
- Sendai City: 仙台市｜リチウムイオン電池等の定日収集（令和4年7月開始・現在も継続）
What to Check
- Do not put batteries in burnable or non-burnable waste (banned or separately collected in most cities).
- Take swollen or damaged batteries to a drop-off point as instructed by your municipality.
- Insulate the terminals with tape before disposal (recommended by many cities).
- Use collection boxes at electronics retailers and partner stores.
Related
- How to dispose of rechargeable batteries
- How to dispose of batteries
- Find your city’s rules from the city guide
Note: This article summarizes nationwide trends based on official municipal announcements. It does not assert any specific city’s exact rules. Always verify the latest information on your municipality’s official website.