The increasing presence of nitrous oxide canisters in Berlin’s waste is raising concerns for the city’s waste management authority. These canisters pose explosion risks in waste incineration plants, leading to significant damage and operational disruptions.
The Berlin waste management authority (BSR) is troubled by the growing number of nitrous oxide canisters in the city’s trash. If these canisters are not fully emptied, they can explode in waste incineration plants, causing damage to the boilers. BSR Chairwoman Stephanie Otto told the newspaper “Berliner Morgenpost” that the facility encounters approximately 250 nitrous oxide canisters daily.
The damage from these explosions is severe enough to frequently halt operations at the incineration plant. Consequently, the collected household waste intended for the Ruhleben incineration plant must be temporarily stored elsewhere. This issue has worsened since the summer of 2023, largely due to the rising use of nitrous oxide as a recreational drug, especially among teenagers.
Explosions are now commonplace
Explosions have become a daily occurrence, with four to five pressurized canister explosions damaging the incineration boilers each day. Petra Nelken, spokeswoman for the Environmental Administration, described this as a nationwide issue and noted that federal states are working on a unified solution.
A proposed initial step is the implementation of a deposit system for these canisters. This measure would ensure they are returned to retailers instead of ending up in household waste. Additionally, the BSR has requested permission from the Environmental Administration to collect nitrous oxide canisters separately from the orange curbside bins to prevent their incineration. The Senate Administration has indicated a willingness to expedite this approval.
Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “whippets,” “laughing gas,” or “hippie crack,” serves both medical and recreational purposes. Dentists and doctors use it as an anesthetic, while recreational users inhale it for its short-lived euphoric effects. However, this seemingly harmless gas can have serious consequences.
Prolonged nitrous oxide use interferes with vitamin B12 metabolism, leading to nerve damage and potential paralysis. The myelin sheath, which protects nerves in the brain and spinal cord, becomes compromised. Nitrous oxide ranks as the second most commonly used recreational drug among young adults in some European countries.
Additionally, nitrous oxide canisters, easily available online and in stores, contribute to its widespread use. These small, portable containers contain the gas, making it convenient for recreational purposes. However, their accessibility raises concerns about misuse and potential health risks.
