Vape disposal bins at 23 CCs for users to surrender e-vaporisers without facing penalties
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The bins will be progressively placed in other locations, such as institutes of higher learning.
ST PHOTO: HESTER TAN
Follow topic:
- Singapore installs vape disposal bins in community centres, offering a way to discard vapes without punishment to encourage users to quit.
- Etomidate, found in vapes, will be classified as a Class C drug, with authorities urging users to quit vaping immediately to avoid legal consequences.
- Increased detection of etomidate in vapes prompted the initiative, with support including extended HSA hotline hours and online reporting.
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SINGAPORE - Members of the public can throw away vapes in new bins installed within community centres around Singapore without fear of punishment.
On July 25, the Ministry of Health, Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and People’s Association launched the “Bin The Vape” initiative.
Bins have been placed at 23 community clubs (CCs) and one residents’ network centre around the island, including in Punggol, Boon Lay, Mountbatten, Woodlands and Bishan.
They will be progressively placed in other locations, such as at institutes of higher learning.
The authorities noted that etomidate, a listed poison increasingly found in vapes here
In a joint news release, the authorities said: “In the meantime, those who are using e-vaporisers and especially consuming etomidate should give up their habit as soon as possible.”
The initiative is meant to encourage vape users to quit before the law catches up with them.
Possessing, using or buying vapes carries a maximum fine of $2,000, but the authorities said no action will be taken against those who voluntarily dispose of their vapes.
Members of the public can visit go.gov.sg/bin-vapes
The red bin resembles a normal trash bin – but with posters of the initiative plastered on its front and top, promising a safe and confidential disposal of vapes.
Its lid is secured with a lock, and a metal chain secures the bin to a pillar or other fixtures. A CCTV camera aimed at the bin deters theft of the disposed vapes and tampering.
The media was invited to witness the installation of one such bin at Canberra Community Club on July 25.
The bin being wheeled into place at Canberra Community Club. The lid is secured with a lock, and a metal chain secures the bin to a pillar or other fixtures.
ST PHOTO: HESTER TAN
Canberra resident and retiree Kwan Kong Hua, 68, is not convinced, though, doubting that people who spent money on vapes would voluntarily dispose of their devices.
Following the increased detection in Singapore of electronic vaporisers containing substances such as etomidate and other controlled drugs, Mr Kwan called for tougher enforcement efforts against vaping.
The former delivery driver, who quit cigarette smoking about a decade ago as it affected his health, is especially concerned when he sees young vapers around the estate.
Mr Kwan said: “Sometimes, they take several puffs and stumble around unsteadily. Any kind of smoking is really harmful for their health.”
Another resident, who gave his name only as Mr Adzhar, 24, knows people who vape. He said some may not give up vaping because they see it as a cheaper alternative to smoking cigarettes.
Mr Adzhar, who is interning at a transport company, added: “It’s 50-50 (chance of people using the bin). There may also be people who throw their vapes to avoid being fined.”
The idea for the bins was first adopted on Nov 18, 2023, by MacPherson Youth Network’s “Drop it, Stop it!”
Sembawang GRC MP Ng Shi Xuan, who was then a grassroots leader in the MacPherson Youth Network, told The Straits Times on July 25 that the two-month campaign saw 70 individuals voluntarily surrender their vapes, exceeding the target of 50 people.
Of the 70 who disposed of their vapes, 14 young people said they wanted to quit vaping but did not know how to begin, added Mr Ng.
He said he was heartened to see the idea scaled up nationwide, and added: “This showed us that with the right support, many are willing to take that first step.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late. Step forward and surrender your vape, the community is here to help you.”
Mr Gopal Mahey, a senior counsellor at the Centre for Psychotherapy who works with young people who vape, said the bins could become bridges for those who need professional help.
But he noted that the presence of CCTV cameras could trigger anxiety about being watched or identified, and some young people may fear the footage would be used against them.
To address this, Mr Mahey said signs could be put up to reinforce confidentiality and encourage young people to speak to a trusted adult if they are struggling.
Said the counsellor: “It’s also important to supplement physical interventions like bins with clear and strong messaging and assurance.”
Those who need help to quit vaping can join HPB’s I Quit programme
Since July 21, HSA has extended the operating hours for its Tobacco Regulation Branch hotline on 6684-2036 or 6684-2037 to report vaping-related offences.
The hotline now operates from 9am to 9pm daily, including on public holidays. HSA has also launched a new online portal to report vaping-related offences at www.go.gov.sg/reportvape
