Urgent Call for National E-Cigarette Recycling Program in UK

According to the Daily Record, the Scottish Green Party (MSP) has warned that e-cigarettes are still being dumped into the environment on an almost industrial scale, highlighting the urgent need for a nationwide recycling program. Green Party MSP Gillian Mackay has called for swift action across the UK to prevent an "environmental disaster," ensuring that e-cigarette products are recycled and disposed of properly instead of littered in public spaces.

The Health Spokesperson for the Scottish Green Party expressed disappointment that the broader clean-up efforts have not been met. The discard e-cigarette campaign has raised awareness about the environmental pollution caused by disposable e-cigarettes, which waste plastic, metal, and chemicals and pose a significant fire hazard in landfills and waste treatment facilities.

Gillian McKeith expressed:

We have already proven that disposable e-cigarettes not only pose health risks, but also cause serious harm to the environment. However, we have learned from the industry that up to 80% of e-cigarettes can be recycled based on their brand. It is imperative that this process be made as simple and effective as possible.

Some responsible retailers have started providing e-cigarette disposal facilities in stores, but it should not be voluntary, it should be mandatory and widespread. E-cigarettes are being disposed of on an almost industrial scale, but we can encourage people to properly recycle these waste products by making the recycling process simple, even through incentive measures.

According to regulations, retailers are required to provide a recycling service for disposable e-cigarettes. However, a study has found that many customers are unaware of the existence of these programs. Jillian McKay mentioned:

The government should work closely with manufacturers, retailers, and even local authorities to clean our streets and parks from the source. It is clear that the public is willing to take action and there is political determination to achieve this goal. So, what is really hindering us?

In Scotland, at least 26 million disposable e-cigarettes are discarded every year, with 8 disposable e-cigarettes being thrown away every second across the UK. The amount of wasted lithium batteries could power 6,700 electric cars each year.

The local e-cigarette industry insists it is taking steps to improve in-store recycling options, including better staff training, increasing in-store recycling points, and enhancing the promotion of these facilities. However, a study by recycling experts last year found that currently only one-third of professional retailers have e-cigarette recycling points, while supermarkets and convenience stores have virtually no recycling facilities.