Berlin’s rubbish collection service, BSR, is sounding the alarm over an alarming increase in explosions caused by improperly disposed of nitrous oxide canisters. Partygoers in the city are being urged to exercise more responsibility when disposing of their laughing gas canisters.
BSR reports that the number of canisters containing nitrous oxide dregs exploding in their sorting plant incinerator has risen from just one per day in 2023 to five per day. Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of commercially-sized laughing gas canisters discarded in Berlin. These explosions not only disrupt the rubbish processing but also pose a risk to the safety of employees.
To address this issue, BSR is calling on partygoers to bring their laughing gas canisters to designated recycling plants or BSR collection points for proper disposal. Properly handling these canisters can help prevent accidents and protect the environment.
The availability and legality of laughing gas in Berlin have contributed to the problem. Laughing gas is cheap, easy to find, and not officially recognized as a drug in Germany. There are no age restrictions on purchasing these canisters, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.
In related news, the state government in Lower Saxony has recently announced plans to advocate for the inclusion of laughing gas in a law that would impose restrictions on its purchase. This move aims to regulate the use and disposal of laughing gas more effectively.
As Berlin tackles this laughing gas problem, it is crucial for both authorities and individuals to work together to ensure the proper disposal of these canisters. Responsible actions can help mitigate the risks associated with the increasing use of laughing gas and protect the city’s waste management infrastructure.