Mechelen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Machelen-Diegem recycling centre reopened after a fire destroyed 50 electronic waste containers. Incovo restored the site, introduced safety measures, and trained staff to handle batteries safely.
As VRT News reported, the Machelen-Diegem recycling centre is reopening after being closed for several weeks due to a serious fire. Authorities and staff have introduced new safety measures to prevent future incidents. They mentioned that the reopening allows the community to continue recycling their electronic and other waste responsibly. The centre is fully restored and prepared for regular operations.
“Everyone worked incredibly hard,”
Incovo said.
“Thanks to the dedication of our services, we can reopen the centre fully and safely. Thank you all for your patience.”
What caused the fire at the Machelen-Diegem recycling centre?
The fire at the Machelen-Diegem recycling centre is believed to have started because some batteries were not sorted correctly. Experts often warn people to bring in batteries the right way. Damaged or incorrectly collected batteries can ignite suddenly.
“Together with the prevention service, we are now looking at where we can take additional steps,”
the statement reads
The intermunicipal waste company Incovo has several safety measures for battery recycling. They mentioned that properly sorted batteries are placed in Bebat containers, which monitor the temperature of the batteries. Recycling centres also provide wrapping foil for batteries with damaged contacts. Staff at the parks are trained to handle discarded batteries safely.
On 27 June 2025, a severe fire broke out at the recycling centre in Machelen‑Diegem, destroying approximately 50 electronic‑waste containers under a canopy, and leading to a temporary closure for several weeks. During that period, staff and services from the inter‑municipal waste company Incovo undertook extensive cleanup, inspection and reinforcement of safety protocols. Incovo, which operates multiple recycling parks in Flemish‑Brabant, has long emphasised the safe handling of batteries and electronic waste to avoid spontaneous ignition incidents.