Key Points:
·Proposal: Introduce a deposit-return system offering discounts for returned vapes to ensure proper recycling.
·Problem: Despite regulations, many vapes are still discarded incorrectly, leading to environmental and safety risks.
·Industry Response: Experts urge dedicated curbside collection and advise returning vapes to retailers or recycling centers.
2Firsts, September 10th - according to BBC, the owner of a Shrewsbury vape shop in UK has proposed a refundable deposit system to prevent improper vape disposal. Richard Morris of Salop Vapes noted that despite legal requirements for specialized recycling bins, vapes often still aren't recycled correctly.
He suggested that customers could return old vapes for a discount on new purchases, encouraging proper recycling. His comments follow waste management firm Biffa's report that the disposable vape ban hasn't stopped millions from being discarded improperly, though industry representatives argue the ban has been effective.
Morris emphasized that widespread participation would be necessary for such a system to work. Biffa has urged the government to implement curbside collection for vapes due to increasing fires at waste facilities caused by batteries and electronic waste.
Briony Bendle of Veolia Shropshire advised that vapes and electronics containing lithium batteries should be separated from household waste and returned to retailers or recycling centers.
