Doncaster's New Vape Recycling Plan Sparks Safety and Sustainability Buzz!

Doncaster has launched a new recycling scheme to help prevent fires caused by batteries and vapes. Starting this week, residents can leave used vapes, e-cigarettes, and small batteries in a sealed clear bag on top of their blue recycling bin. The refuse crews will collect these items separately to make sure they are recycled safely. This new service comes after a rise in battery-related fires in garbage trucks and recycling centers across the UK. These fires happen when batteries are thrown away with regular trash, which can be very dangerous.

The Deputy Mayor of Doncaster, Glyn Jones, explained that many people are confused about how to dispose of batteries and vapes. If these items are put in the wrong bin, they can catch fire easily and put refuse workers at risk. The council hopes that the new collection method will make things clearer for residents and reduce the danger to the crews. People are asked to remove any packaging from the batteries and vapes before putting them in the bag. Any loose wires or connectors should be taped up to prevent accidents. Larger batteries, like car batteries, still need to be taken to household waste recycling centers.

The council listed the types of batteries that will be accepted: AA, AAA, button batteries, 6V and 9V batteries, C and D batteries, laptop batteries, and mobile phone batteries. Vapes and e-cigarettes can also be recycled through this scheme. Shane Atkins from the waste management company SUEZ said that putting batteries in household bins can cause fires in collection vehicles and recycling facilities, which puts both workers and the public at risk. By collecting these items separately at the kerbside, they can be recycled properly and safely. The new scheme aims to help the environment and protect everyone in Doncaster from the dangers of battery fires.