Disposable vapes and other small electronic devices containing lithium-ion batteries are a well-documented contamination issue for local authority waste streams and pose a serious fire risk in collection vehicles and facilities. LARAC has said the move is a “vital recognition” of the strain these products place on the sector, as well as the wider environment.
Cathy Cook, LARAC chair, said: “Effective implementation will require consistent enforcement across all four nations, backed by clear guidance, adequate resources, and the necessary powers for local authorities to ensure the ban is properly upheld.
“Additionally, while the disposable nature of these products contributes significantly to their environmental impact, reusable vapes and other small battery-powered devices continue to present the same hazards across waste streams. Legacy items sold prior to the ban and those illegally sold or discarded afterwards will persist in the waste stream for some time.”
Beware of loopholes
LARAC also warned of the risk of loopholes through “superficial product redesigns” that present items as reusable or refillable, while retaining their disposable characteristics.
The association has called on enforcement agencies across the four nations to work hard to ensure that regulations are not” undermined” by deceptive marketing or design. It also noted that the ban must be backed with “strong enforcement, clear policy follow-through and robust producer responsibility”.
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