Flames engulfed a large part of the waste centre as 60 firefighters rushed to the scene.
The blaze caused huge clouds of smoke, and 10 fire engines were needed to put it out.
Residents in the local area were advised to keep doors and windows shut and to avoid travelling near the fire until it was under control.
The blaze was ignited by a discarded vape that exploded in the recycling compactor.
The raging fire, which took place at the Biffa Waste Management Aldridge in Westgate, Aldridge, Walsall, has prompted warnings from the local council.
CCTV footage from inside the plant showed the fire engulfing the area.
A total of 60 firefighters, one hydraulic platform and a drone were deployed to help tackle the situation, as reported by Need To Know.
According to Lichfield City Council, battery fires are rising 70% each year, costing over £1bn.
All workers in the plant were accounted for.
The fire took place in January but the video has only just been released.
The cause came to light on Wednesday (11 Jun).
A spokesperson for Lichfield City Council said: “Don’t bin your vape – it could cause a fire.
“This shocking footage shows how a discarded vape sparked a blaze at a West Midlands waste site.
“Vapes contain lithium batteries, which can explode if damaged in bins or recycling.
“Take them to a household recycling centre, use a dedicated vape bin found in shops, stations, offices and more.
“Never put them in your household bin.”
Members of the public were left shocked by the footage.
One said, “That’s why they are banning it.”
Another added: “It’s ok cause they’re getting banned…eventually.”
One said: “When are we going to get a battery recycling bin, it’s 2025, we don’t need a damn food bin and don’t want to go into town to throw away some batteries or vapes.”
Another stated: “No one’s going to go through the hassle of ‘correctly’ disposing.
“If something gives us cancer, more dangerous than cigarettes and blows up, then maybe it’s time to have a flat-out ban.”
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