Schoolchildren across Westmorland and Furness have played a key role in preventing battery-related fires and protecting the environment by taking part in a county-wide ‘Baa-ttery Campaign’.
Since May 2024, primary schools across Cumbria have been collecting used batteries to ensure they are safely recycled rather than being disposed of in household waste. Thanks to their efforts, over two tonnes of batteries have been collected, reducing the risk of waste facility fires and promoting sustainable recycling habits.
Westmorland and Furness Council have supported the initiative, providing book token prizes for the schools that collected the most batteries per pupil. The top-performing schools in the area were:
1st Place – Hunter Hall School, Penrith
2nd Place – Patterdale C of E School
3rd Place – Penruddock Primary School
The campaign, originally launched by Renewi and now managed by Biffa, highlights the dangers of improperly disposing of batteries. When placed in general waste or recycling bins, batteries can become damaged during transportation or treatment, potentially igniting and causing dangerous fires.
To make recycling easier, free battery collection boxes were distributed to schools by campaign partners Valpak Ltd. Once full, schools could request a free collection, ensuring safe disposal and replacement with a new box.
Councillor Giles Archibald, Westmorland and Furness Council Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity and Environmental Services, praised the initiative:
“As a council, we are committed to reducing waste and protecting our environment. The success of the ‘Baa-ttery Campaign’ demonstrates the enthusiasm and dedication of our young people in making a real difference. With millions of batteries thrown away each year, every single one that is recycled helps to prevent fires, conserve valuable resources, and keep our waste treatment facilities safe.
“It’s inspiring to see our schools leading the way in environmental responsibility, and I encourage everyone to follow the children’s example and dispose of batteries safely.
“I would like to extend my thanks to all the schools for their participation and congratulate the winners for their outstanding efforts. Your commitment to sustainability is truly commendable, and you are setting an example for future generations to follow.”
Westmorland and Furness Council is encouraging residents and organisations to continue supporting the ‘Baa-ttery Campaign’ with free battery collection boxes available to be ordered by visiting www.recycle-more.co.uk.
Photo shows L-R: Councillor Giles Archibald from Westmorland and Furness Council, Hermione Holiday and Lucy Millington from Hunter Hall School, and Nick Blake from Biffa.
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