A mother in Guernsey was handed an £11,500 fine for incorrectly disposing of batteries in a waste bag. Krystal Ogier was in the process of moving homes in Guernsey because it was getting 'so expensive'. According to major media reports, Ms Ogier threw away 23 AA batteries that were inside children's toys.
She was unaware of the £500-per-battery charge issued by Island Waste. Ms Ogier was aware that batteries were not allowed to be thrown away in the one-tonne waste bag she ordered online, but did not realise that throwing away toys with the batteries inside them counted. Island Waste worked with Ms Ogier to arrange payment of the fine, which has now been reduced to £1,000.
The specific laws or regulations in Guernsey that authorize Island Waste to impose such fines are not detailed in available reports. Island Waste promotes safe disposal of batteries due to the fire hazard they pose. ' Ms Ogier said the rates are 'extortionate' and that the company should explain the fines in 'big red writing' on its website.
The company has bold messaging online, which explains the safe disposal of batteries, and includes a box customers must tick to declare they have checked the items. It is unknown how many similar fines Island Waste has issued in the past year. Alternative disposal methods for batteries in Guernsey that customers can use are not specified in the claims.
The exact process for appealing or negotiating such fines with Island Waste beyond this case is unclear. The incident underscores the importance of clear waste disposal guidelines to prevent costly penalties and safety risks. The case has drawn attention to the financial burdens residents face during moves and the need for explicit warnings about disposal rules.
Island Waste's emphasis on battery safety reflects broader industry concerns about fire prevention at waste facilities.