Vape products are not only a health risk but also a growing waste concern. Nearly 12 million disposable units are sold monthly in the U.S., causing significant health and safety risks from fires from the disposal of lithium-ion batteries used to power these devices. The Boulder County Public Health Department has hired PSI to bring together key stakeholders to evaluate county-level policy options, including EPR, retail license fees, consumer fees, and bans on single-use vape devices.
Last week, PSI’s Lelande Rehard and Hanz Atia led focus groups with vape users and Boulder County officials to assess how stakeholders would be impacted by these policies. Additionally, a survey aimed at vape users solicited feedback about how they currently manage their vapes after use and assessed their opinions on who should be responsible for end-of-life management. Following a final policy engagement meeting this spring, PSI will develop a proposed policy solution for consideration by the County.