Concerns about environmental impact of disposable vapes

Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin North West Paul McAuliffe, has highlighted that local councils in Ireland are increasingly hearing concerns from residents on the environmental impact of disposable vapes. 

McAuliffe cited the fact that disposable vapes are electronic cigarettes that are not rechargeable, and that they contain electronic components including a battery which require safe disposal when they become waste.

They contain a complex mixture of materials, some of which may be hazardous and are not easily recyclable. Modern electronics also contain rare and expensive materials, which can and should be recycled and re-used. he noted.

“However, their single-use nature means that disposable vapes are often not disposed of appropriately,” he said.

“In my engagements with local council members it is clear that disposable vapes are increasingly becoming a topic of concern for communities across the country. Not only are residents noticing increasing numbers of vapes being thrown away carelessly, but councils are also attempting to find safe and effective ways to dispose of them appropriately.”

“Vapes are composed of a mixture of electronics and complex materials that may often be hazardous and require careful disposal. The use of these materials in a single-use product is wasteful and it is time to discuss whether an outright ban is necessary on environmental grounds,” he remarked.

McAuliffe noted that plans were afoot in France to ban disposable vapes and the United Kingdom have indicated that the Department of Health and Social Care will also soon recommend an outright ban on the devices.