The FDA recently sent warning letters to three distributors for illegally supplying popular disposable vape brands that lack regulatory approval. Targeted products included Elf Bar, Esco Bars, and Puff Max.
This enforcement aims to disrupt major distribution channels delivering unauthorized, youth-favored disposable e-cigarettes to retailers nationwide. The agency vows sustained actions against entities profiting from these concerning products.
In a recent alarming incident in North Somerset, a disposable vape nearly caught fire in a bin lorry, raising serious concerns about the safety of disposing of such items irresponsibly. North Somerset Recycling and Waste reported that the incident occurred near Backwell and could have led to a catastrophic situation if not for the quick action of the bin crew. This incident has prompted authorities to issue warnings and recommendations to the public regarding the proper disposal of vapes and the need for more sustainable alternatives.
The incident involving the bin lorry near Backwell highlighted the risks associated with discarding disposable vapes in regular waste bins. Fortunately, the vigilant bin crew quickly noticed smoke coming from the lorry and identified the source as a disposable vape. They promptly removed it from the lorry, preventing a potential fire disaster. Councillor Annemieke Waite, the executive member for waste at North Somerset Council, commended the bin crew for their quick response, emphasizing the severity of what could have happened if the situation had escalated.
In a bid to combat youth vaping, the New Zealand government introduced new vaping policies in June, aiming to curb the sale of vapes near schools and marae. However, a concerning loophole has emerged, allowing dairies and supermarkets to bypass the new proximity rule and begin selling vapes within 300 meters of these sensitive locations.
The government's new vaping policies were designed to restrict specialist vape retailers (SVRs) from setting up shop near schools and marae. The ban was meant to ensure that areas close to these places would not be inundated with new vape shops. But surprisingly, the ban does not apply to general retailers (GRs), which include dairies and supermarkets. Hence, these general retailers can still start selling vapes within 300 meters of schools and marae after October 1.
In recent times, vaping has become a highly contentious issue with serious health implications. The federal government attributes over 1,000 hospitalizations and 18 fatalities to vaping. However, the vaping industry is vehemently pushing back, arguing that regulated vape shops are unfairly bearing the blame for the actions of black market drug dealers. In the midst of this controversy, one Charlotte-area vape manufacturer and retailer, AMV Holdings, stands at the forefront, decrying the misinformation and fear-mongering that surrounds the industry. This article seeks to explore the complexities of the vaping crisis, delve into the contrasting viewpoints, and shed light on the impact it has had on businesses and consumers alike.
In the United Kingdom, over 1.3 million non-rechargeable vapes are discarded every week, but due to confusion surrounding their recyclability, many end up in general waste or as litter. To address this issue, Biffa has introduced a new Vape Takeback scheme that enables consumers to safely dispose of single-use e-cigarettes, reducing litter and assisting shops and supermarkets in complying with regulations. This article will explore the details of Biffa's initiative, the importance of proper vape disposal, and the positive environmental impact it can have.
Under the strict regulations of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), vapes must be disposed of at designated locations such as household recycling centers, designated collection facilities, or the shop where they were purchased. The lithium batteries present in these devices pose a pollution risk and fire hazard, making it crucial to handle their disposal appropriately.
Retailers failing to implement a vape return system can face fines of up to £5,000 per store, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the WEEE rules. Unfortunately, the confusion surrounding vape recycling has resulted in many devices ending up in landfills or being incinerated. This practice prevents valuable materials like lithium and plastic from being recycled and repurposed into new products.