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Single-use vape recycling now available
29/11/2023
Used vapes could cause contamination or a fire if put with general waste or recycling
Single-use vape users in the Cherwell district can now recycle their used vapes safely using the weekly refuse collection.
Vapes shouldn’t be placed in the general waste or recycling blue and green bins as they can contaminate other waste and the batteries they contain have been known to cause serious fires. Instead, the vapes can now be placed in a clear plastic bag on top of the bin on collection day in a similar vein to other small electrical items.
In addition a number of drop-off points will soon be appearing in Banbury town centre and at Oxfordshire County Council’s household waste and recycling centres.
The vape recycling project is one of more than 40 across the UK funded by Material Focus – the not for profit Recycle Your Electricals campaign. They have provided over £40,000 for Oxfordshire to be one of the first county councils to lead the way by recycling vapes.
Recent research by Material Focus identified that an estimated 80,000 disposable vapes are discarded in Oxfordshire every week.
Councillor Pete Sudbury, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment, said: “Partly because of their environmental impact, we would support a ban on the sale of disposable vapes and encourage reusable vapes where possible. However, while vapes are still being used and thrown away, this project will expand the range of services for residents to safely recycle them.”
Scott Butler, Executive Director of Material Focus, said: “We are pleased to support ‘Recycle Your Vape’ as it will help address the pressing issue of vape waste. This project could be an example for other initiatives across the UK, to make it easier to recycle vapes by providing public recycling points.
“By investing in improved collection and drop-off services and exploring new recycling methods, we are taking a significant step towards creating a more sustainable future by making it easier for 10 million more people to recycle their electricals.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam
George Taylor On 30/11/2023 at 2:38 pm
Proper disposal of used vapes is crucial to prevent potential contamination and fire hazards. It’s important to raise awareness about the safe disposal methods for these electronic devices. Responsible waste management ensures the safety of both the environment and individuals. Let’s prioritize proper disposal practices for a cleaner and safer community.