The number of fire or smoke incidents apparently caused by lithium-ion batteries during garbage disposal and collection in Japan hit a record high of 36,760 in fiscal 2025, according to provisional government data.
The number for the year ended in March increased by 13,692 from the previous year, a survey released by the Environment Ministry on Friday showed.
The survey, conducted in May this year, is based on responses received from 1,537 of Japan¡¯s 1,741 municipalities as of June 10.
Mobile power banks were the products most frequently responsible for fire or smoke incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, followed by heated tobacco products.
In many cases, such incidents are believed to occur when lithium-ion batteries are mixed with other garbage and subjected to strong impacts.
In April 2025, the ministry issued a notice calling for thorough sorting and collection of lithium-ion batteries.
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