Li-ion Battery Recycling

Rechargeable lithium-ion packs are the batteries doing the most work and causing the most problems. They're in laptops, phones, power banks, cordless devices, e-bikes, e-scooters and vapes, they degrade with use, and a swollen pack is a fire waiting for somewhere to happen. At Vantage, we provide compliant lithium ion battery recycling with safe collection, ADR transport and approved treatment routes.

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Recycling rechargeable li-ion packs

Recycling and disposing of lithium batteries safely

Lithium-ion is a rechargeable chemistry, which means the packs we collect have usually had a working life behind them. Cells swell, battery management systems fail, and packs that have been fast charged or physically knocked about are less predictable than new stock.

We collect and recycle li-ion packs from laptops, tablets, phones and power banks, cordless tools and appliances, e-bikes, e-scooters and vapes, and from returned, warranty and recalled product lines. We work with manufacturers, retailers, distributors, repairers, offices and waste operators.

Whether you've got a returns bay filling up or an ongoing collection to set up, we'll help find the right route.

Our Process

How it works

Tell us what packs you're dealing with and what condition they're in. We'll recommend suitable containers, including UN-approved packaging for damaged or defective cells, and advise on how to isolate and store anything showing swelling or heat damage.

Once collected, packs are transported through approved channels using our own ADR fleet and processed at authorised recycling facilities, where cells are discharged and dismantled so lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper and aluminium can be recovered.

You'll receive full documentation and complete traceability throughout the process.

Compliance

Compliance you can trust

Lithium-ion batteries are class 9 dangerous goods, and damaged, defective or recalled cells sit under stricter transport provisions again. Our team manages classification, packaging, documentation and logistics on your behalf, so packs leave your site correctly and you have a clear audit trail through to final treatment.

Why Choose Vantage?

Damaged li-ion is exactly the kind of waste most operators would rather not touch. We handle it routinely, with IMI Level 4 qualified technicians, experienced battery specialists and our own ADR fleet ranging from vans to HGVs.

As an Approved Battery Treatment Operator (ABTO), we're trusted by leading manufacturers to manage complex and higher risk battery waste compliantly from collection through to final recycling.

What We Handle

Related Services

Li-ion Battery Recycling

E-Scooters & E-Bikes Recycling

Power Tool Battery Recycling

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between lithium and lithium-ion batteries?

Lithium batteries are generally single use primary cells, found in smoke detectors, meters and medical devices. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and used in laptops, phones, power tools, e-bikes and similar products. Both need separate collection, but rechargeable packs are more likely to arrive damaged or degraded.

Can lithium-ion batteries be recycled?

Yes. Li-ion packs are discharged and dismantled at authorised facilities so that lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper and aluminium can be recovered and returned to the supply chain.

What is an Approved Battery Treatment Operator (ABTO)?

An Approved Battery Treatment Operator (ABTO) is a UK-authorised facility that safely treats and recycles waste batteries in line with environmental regulations. Sending waste batteries to an ABTO ensures legal compliance, safe recycling and environmental protection. UK regulations require producers and businesses to route used portable, industrial and automotive batteries through certified operators, helping maximise material recovery while minimising environmental impact.

What should I do with a swollen li-ion battery?

Isolate it immediately, move it away from combustible materials and other batteries, and don't attempt to charge or puncture it. Store it in a secure location and arrange collection through a specialist provider who can transport it under ADR in suitable packaging.

Do you collect li-ion batteries from returned or recalled products?

Yes. We provide collection, transport, secure destruction, disposal and recycling for defective, obsolete, damaged and recalled products, working with manufacturers, retailers, distributors and logistics providers.

Are li-ion batteries dangerous goods?

Yes. Lithium-ion batteries are classified as class 9 miscellaneous dangerous goods, and damaged or defective cells carry additional packaging and transport requirements. Our own ADR fleet and trained drivers handle those movements.

Do you offer nationwide waste collection services?

Yes, we operate our own fleet collecting from over 2,500 customer collection points throughout the UK. Speak to us about your requirements for further information tailored to your business.

What containers do you provide for waste collections?

We provide a wide range of containers, including wheelie bins, drums, IBCs, stillages, pallet boxes, battery storage units, specialist airbag containers and UN-approved containers for critically damaged EV batteries. We can also provide vermiculite for safe battery storage. Our team will recommend the most suitable option based on your waste stream, storage requirements, operational needs and collection schedule.

Why Vantage

Let's Talk About Your Waste Management Requirements

Tell us about your waste streams, collection needs or compliance challenges and our team will recommend the right solution for your business.

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