Peggy Walker advocates for San Diego ban on disposable e-cigarettes

During the recent Environmental Commission meeting in Encinitas, community advocate Peggy Walker raised urgent concerns about the environmental and health impacts of disposable e-cigarettes. Walker, who works with the San Diego Alliance for Drug-Free Youth, highlighted new studies indicating that these products are more toxic than traditional cigarettes.

She emphasized the growing problem of hazardous waste disposal associated with disposable vapes, particularly as schools prepare to reopen. Walker pointed out that the city’s website lacks information on proper disposal methods for e-cigarettes, which contain harmful chemicals, lithium-ion batteries, and plastics that pose risks to both health and the environment.

To address these issues, Walker proposed three potential solutions: a complete ban on disposable e-cigarettes, a retailer take-back program requiring sellers to manage the disposal of these products, and the implementation of an e-cigarette tax to fund disposal efforts. She noted the prevalence of illegal disposable vapes, particularly those manufactured overseas, which continue to be sold despite existing bans.

Walker concluded her presentation by providing the commission with materials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to raise awareness about the health hazards and proper disposal guidelines for e-cigarettes. Her passionate appeal underscores the need for immediate action to protect public health and the environment in Encinitas.