Metal recyclers call on festival bosses to ban disposable vapes

The BMRA called on all festivals bosses to follow the lead of those of those at the Glastonbury festival, which starts today, who have asked attendees not to bring them on environmental grounds, though it is unclear if they will be confiscated.  

According to research by Eunomia Research and Consulting it is estimated that lithium-ion batteries are responsible for around 48% of all waste fires occurring in the UK each year, costing the UK economy £158 million a year. 

‘Devastation’ 

James Kelly of the British Metals Recycling Association said: “We have seen the devastation of fires at member sites caused by lithium-ion batteries being placed in the incorrect waste stream and we would hate to see this occur at a summer festival. 

“Lithium-ion batteries in vapes are so small. There is a possibility if the weather takes a turn for the worse that the vape could end up in the mud, the battery could become separated from its casing and fall under the surface. If the land is used for grazing, this could potentially be swallowed by an animal. Let’s hope people are responsible.” 

Sector 

The BMRA serves as the representative body for the £7 billion metals recycling sector in the United Kingdom. This sector encompasses approximately 2,000 businesses and provides employment to over 15,000 individuals.