Binmen have issued a stark warning about a common item that must never be placed in general waste or recycling bins: disposable vapes. The lithium-ion batteries inside vapes pose a serious fire hazard when crushed in bin lorries, putting waste collectors at risk.
Ashley, a binman known as No.1 Binman on TikTok, posted a video stating he will refuse to collect any bin containing a vape. From June 1, the sale of single-use vapes became illegal in the UK, but reusable vapes are still legal. However, broken rechargeable vapes also cannot be disposed of in household bins.
Instead, used vapes should be returned to supermarkets or vape shops, which are legally obliged to accept them for recycling. Alternatively, they can be taken to Household Waste Recycling Centres with designated battery or small electricals recycling areas. Residents are advised to check with their local council beforehand.
