The Mancomunidad de Municipios de la Costa del Sol Occidental has launched a recovery and treatment system for vapes and e-cigarettes at the Environmental Complex of the Costa del Sol. This type of waste, with its significantly increased consumption, represents a new environmental challenge for the region.
Since the collection began in March, approximately 600 kilos of these devices have been recovered, averaging about 100 kilos per month. Improper management of these items, containing lithium batteries, metals, and plastics, poses a direct risk to the environment.
Félix Romero, president of the Mancomunidad, highlighted the importance of this initiative in the face of the growing presence of such waste. "We are facing a new generation of waste whose presence increases every month. 'Vapes' seem harmless, but their composition makes them hazardous waste," he stated.
These devices should not be disposed of in domestic or conventional recycling bins due to the fire and environmental risks associated with lithium batteries. Specialized collection systems or collection points are required. Many manufacturers and points of sale provide specific containers and are obligated to ensure their recovery.
Romero urged citizens: "We ask residents not to throw 'vapes' into any conventional container. They should be taken to collection points or containers for electronic devices. This simple action prevents fires in collection trucks and reduces the chemical pollution associated with this waste."
The Costa del Sol Environmental Complex is making a significant effort to integrate the recovery of these devices, which require manual handling and specific treatment to protect the environment.
Recommendations for proper vape disposal include not throwing them in regular trash or yellow/grey bins, as they can cause fires during collection or treatment due to the lithium battery. They should be taken to collection points or vape shops with WEEE containers. For rechargeable vapes, users should separate the battery, cartridge, and other components, depositing the battery in a specific lithium container.
This initiative positions the Costa del Sol Environmental Complex at the forefront of emerging waste management, enabling the recovery of metals like aluminum and cobalt and preventing the release of pollutants.
The Mancomunidad thus reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and innovation in waste treatment, adapting its management to new consumption habits.
