Students Save 1.5 Million Batteries from Landfill in Ireland

UPDATE: Students across Ireland have just saved an astonishing 1.5 million used batteries from ending up in landfills. This remarkable achievement comes as the WEEE Ireland Schools Battery Challenge 2025-2026 officially opens for entries today, 22 September 2025.

With new EU Batteries Regulation now in full effect, schools are under pressure to meet heightened waste battery collection and recycling targets. The competition invites all primary and secondary schools in WEEE Ireland’s battery recycling counties to participate by collecting at least 10 full 5kg battery boxes.

Last year, students collectively rescued the weight equivalent of nearly four school buses in batteries. Notably, Cloonfour National School in Roscommon, with only 40 pupils, stood out by collecting nearly 2,000 AA batteries per person. Their extraordinary efforts won them first place in their category during the WEEE Ireland Schools Battery Recycling Competition 2024-2025.

Other notable winners hailed from regions including Galway, Waterford, and Donegal, each receiving a €2,000 sports voucher for their commendable contributions.

Elizabeth O’Reilly, head of environmental compliance at WEEE Ireland, emphasized the importance of this initiative:

“The new EU Batteries Regulation raises the bar for all of us, and schools across Ireland are proving they are ready to meet that challenge.”

She highlighted how the combined efforts of students, teachers, families, and local communities directly contribute to meeting recovery targets for vital materials such as cobalt, copper, lead, lithium, and nickel, essential for a sustainable battery economy.

In a touching statement, Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, expressed gratitude for the impact of the battery recycling program over the past 14 years. The initiative has raised an impressive total of €610,000 for LauraLynn, benefiting countless children and families across Ireland.

“It may seem like something small, but for the children and families who rely on LauraLynn, and for the environment, it is huge and very impactful,”

McLaverty remarked.

Schools interested in participating can find more information and order free WEEE Ireland Blue Battery Boxes at www.weeeireland.ie. The time to act is now, as Ireland’s students continue to lead the way in sustainable practices and community engagement. The ripple effects of their efforts are not only felt locally but also resonate across the globe, pushing for a brighter, greener future.