Ghent Collects 1,202 Laughing Gas Capsules with €5 Incentive

Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ghent collected 1,202 laughing gas capsules in December 2024, up due to a €5 incentive. The project aims to reduce hazardous waste and explosions.

In December 2024, IVAGO collected a total of 1,202 empty laughing gas capsules from container parks in Ghent. This amount is almost one-third more than the usual monthly average. The increase happened because of a new project started by the city of Ghent in May 2024. Under this program, residents can earn €5 for each empty laughing gas capsule they return. 

Is Ghent’s €5 program effectively reducing laughing gas explosions?

According to Alderman Sofie Bracke, there were more problems with waste ovens in December 2024. There were 14 explosions from laughing gas capsules in the trash. These explosions can cause danger and damage. Sometimes, the ovens must be shut down for repairs, which can take days and cost 45,000 euros each time. The ovens do not make electricity for the Ghent University Hospital. 

In eight months, people returned 7,000 capsules. The city wants to keep collecting these capsules to avoid more explosions. Since May 2024, IVAGO has paid 35,000 euros for the returned capsules, and explosions have dropped by 30 percent. The city thinks the project is worth the money. It was supposed to end in the summer of 2025, but it will continue. Other waste groups are watching the project, but there are no new plans yet.

Goals of  Ghent’s €5 program

The project aims to reduce the number of laughing gas canisters that people throw away carelessly. When these canisters end up in waste incinerators, they can create serious safety risks. These capsules are built to withstand high pressure, and if they are burned, they can explode. The city hopes this program will encourage responsible disposal and keep everyone safe.

The project aims to teach the public how to dispose of laughing gas capsules correctly. By offering money for each empty capsule, Ghent encourages people to participate in responsible waste management. They mentioned that this helps reduce safety risks and environmental issues related to laughing gas. The initiative supports the city’s larger sustainability goals. With more capsules being returned.

What are the health risks of laughing gas?

According to Toxicologist Christophe Stove from UGent, people inhale laughing gas instead of oxygen. This can make them feel drunk. The drug is popular because it is easy to get, and the high does not last long.

However, it can be dangerous for young people. Their brains are still growing, and laughing gas can cause lasting nerve damage. This can lead to tingling and other problems. The effects can last longer than people think, sometimes over an hour. It can also make it hard to focus, which is dangerous, especially while driving.

How is Belgium addressing its recreational use?

In April 2024, Belgium banned the sale and possession of laughing gas for recreational use. This decision aims to stop the growing misuse of the gas, which can harm health and safety. Young people often use laughing gas, leading to issues like nerve damage and accidents. While it is still legal for food and medical uses, using it as a drug is now illegal. Those caught selling or having laughing gas for fun can face fines starting at €200. Repeat offenders may even go to jail. The government is working to educate people about the risks and enforce these new rules.