Hobsons Bay City Council has launched a vape recycling trial to offer the community a sustainable way to dispose of the products, as well as limit their environmental impact.
Despite national sales restrictions on vapes, they are a growing issue in the community, both for health concerns and impact on the environment.
Council is encouraging residents who use vapes to safely dispose their used vapes at Altona Library or Newport Community Hub, with the trial in place until 17 April.
Clean Up Australia's litter report says improper disposal of vapes is on the rise nation-wide, having been collected from more than 30 per cent of sites surveyed by the organisation in 2024, nearly an eight per cent increase from 2023.
The trial aims to provide clear disposal guidance as well as recover valuable materials, including copper, plastic and metals found in the devices.
With no national vape recycling scheme, local solutions like the trial are essential in managing a growing issue.
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Daria Kellander:
"Vapes have unfortunately become an ongoing issue for the community, with their disposal just one of many concerns with the devices.
"This trial provides a judgement-free way for community members to safely dispose of their vapes."
