Recycling scheme aimed at curbing hospitality vape waste

A new vape recycling initiative, the first of its kind in Ireland, has been launched across Monaghan. It brings together ERP Ireland, Monaghan County Council and the County Monaghan Vintners’ Federation of Ireland to tackle the growing issue of vape waste in the local hospitality sector.

Recognising that vape use and waste management are issues affecting a range of venues, the initiative is providing a valuable opportunity to develop and evaluate a practical, scalable model at local level.

It is being delivered through a strong collaborative partnership, supporting industry leadership and driving awareness, engagement and compliance across the hospitality sector.

The pilot programme also looks to engage a wider cross-section of the hospitality sector including hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs who are all members of the VFI.

The selected premises taking part in the scheme have installed vape collection boxes in designated bin storage areas, helping to safely capture and recycle vapes that are frequently discarded in smoking areas and general waste bins.

While vape retailers are legally required to take back used vapes free of charge on a like-for-like basis, the hospitality sector are not typically considered retail outlets. However, vapes are commonly disposed of in hospitality settings. This initiative recognises the important role the hospitality sector can play in preventing these items from entering general waste streams.

Bar staff often collect discarded vapes and ensure they are safely recycled, reducing the risks associated with incorrect disposal. It is estimated that up to 30 million vapes enter the Irish waste stream each year, presenting a significant environmental and safety challenge. As vapes contain lithium-ion batteries, incorrect disposal in general waste can lead to fires in bin trucks or at waste treatment facilities, particularly when the devices are crushed, compacted or exposed to heat during processing.

By introducing a safe and practical collection system, this initiative directly addresses these risks and offers a model with strong potential for replication in other counties across Ireland.

Commenting on the initiative, James Burgess, Country General Manager for ERP Ireland said: “We are delighted to be involved in this innovative programme, which brings together local partners to tackle a growing environmental and safety challenge. By working with the hospitality sector to introduce practical collection points, we are making it easier to keep vapes out of general waste and ensure they are recycled safely and responsibly.”

Cllr Aidan Campbell, Cathaoirleach Monaghan County Council also praised the project.

“This initiative represents a strong example of what can be achieved through collaboration at a local level. By working closely with partners and the hospitality sector, we are taking practical steps to address the growing challenge of vape waste, while supporting businesses to adopt more sustainable practices across County Monaghan.”

Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, Robert Burns, is also supportive of the programme.

“Monaghan County Council is proud to lead this innovative, first-of-its-kind pilot in partnership with ERP Ireland and the Vintners Federation of Ireland.

“This initiative not only promotes responsible disposal of vape waste and environmental protection, but also demonstrates how local authorities, industry partners and businesses can come together to deliver meaningful, sustainable solutions for our communities.”

Cllr Raymond Aughey, chairperson for the County Monaghan Vinters Federation of Ireland, said:

“We’re proud that County Monaghan is leading the way with this first-of-its-kind pilot in Ireland. Working in partnership with ERP Ireland, Monaghan County Council and the VFI, this initiative brings the wider hospitality sector together to take practical action on vape waste and set a strong example for the rest of the country.”