By KHT Staff. Image via Kaohsiung Health Bureau.
KAOHSIUNG — An anonymous collection program for unwanted electronic cigarettes brought in about 73.1 kilograms of devices, parts, and liquids during its first month in Kaohsiung, according to the city’s Health Bureau (衛生局).
The collection included 1,617 devices and components, 871 cartridges, and 168 bottles of vaping liquid, Liberty Times reported Nov. 3, citing bureau figures.
Sanmin District’s health center (三民區衛生所) received the largest amount by weight, at 12.59 kilograms, followed by Cianjhen’s health center (前鎮區衛生所), with 7.92 kilograms. Linyuan’s health center (林園區衛生所) collected 270 cartridges, accounting for nearly 31% of the citywide cartridge total.
Kaohsiung established 43 collection points when the national program began Sept. 8. They are located at the Health Bureau, district health centers, and community mental health centers.
Residents can place vaping products directly into designated bins without registering, providing personal information, or undergoing product checks, according to the bureau’s collection announcement.
The bureau urged residents to use the designated collection system rather than discard the products carelessly, noting that batteries, electronic components, and remaining liquids can create environmental and safety risks.
Readers can find collection locations through the Health Promotion Administration’s official drop-off directory.
