Ghent (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Rising laughing gas use poses health risks and causes explosions from improper disposal. IVAGO’s return program in Ghent has reduced incidents, highlighting the need for more awareness and safety measures.
The rising use of laughing gas as a party drug is causing major health and safety problems. It has been said that long-term use can damage the brain by disrupting vitamin B12, which is important for the nervous system. This can lead to issues like memory problems, dizziness and lack of coordination. More awareness and education are needed to help people understand these serious health risks. Throwing away nitrous oxide canisters the wrong way is dangerous for trash facilities. Many people put empty canisters in regular garbage, which can explode in incinerators and cause damage. People need better disposal methods, more public education and stricter rules for selling laughing gas to prevent these problems.
How are exploding laughing gas canisters impacting waste management?
Waste processors regularly ask people to return laughing gas bottles for proper disposal, but this rarely happens. Recently, IM, the waste management group from Meetjesland, reported a troubling fact that their incinerator in Eeklo had about 100 explosions in one year caused by laughing gas canisters. These explosions happen when the residual gas ignites in the high heat of the incinerator. This not only creates safety hazards but also damages the equipment and leads to expensive repairs. The high number of incidents underscores the need for better disposal practices and more public education about the risks of improper disposal.
To address the problem of laughing gas canisters causing explosions in waste incinerators, IVAGO launched a pilot project in Ghent and Destelbergen where people can return 2 or 3-liter bottles to recycling parks and receive a 5-euro credit. Since May, nearly 2,000 bottles have been returned leading to a significant drop in explosions at incinerators. While there are still occasional issues especially during events like the Ghent Festivities the damage has been reduced. IVAGO is considering expanding the project and has noticed interest from other waste management groups.
