Retired teacher Tim Chapman has collected more than 3,500 discarded nitrous oxide canisters in Fenland, Norfolk, over the past 18 months, describing the issue as an 'epidemic'. The empty canisters, each weighing 1.5 kilograms, total over five tonnes of litter.
One-man cleanup mission
Chapman, an avid cyclist, began his cleanup after growing 'fed up' of seeing canisters in lay-bys, T-junctions, and rural pull-offs. 'I don't want to carry on doing it, but I guess I'll have to,' he said. 'The problem has reached epidemic proportions here in Fenland. On Friday mornings, Wisbech Park is often littered with the canisters.'
Health and environmental concerns
Nitrous oxide was classified as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 in 2023, making recreational use illegal. Possession can lead to a caution, community service, or an unlimited fine, while supply carries up to 14 years in prison. Chapman highlighted the dangers: 'The most dangerous canisters are those used while driving. This has led to fatalities and injuries to innocent bystanders.' He also noted the environmental impact, as nitrous oxide is a greenhouse gas 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
Proposed solutions
Chapman suggests a licensing scheme or a deposit system to curb the problem. 'The canisters sell for about £20 each. If you put a £5-£10 deposit on each one, that might limit the amount bought,' he said. He also warned against placing canisters in public bins, as they can explode in waste incinerators, causing millions in damage.
Community action
Chapman encourages others to help but advises leaving canisters beside council bins rather than inside. 'Many people are unaware what these are. Some think they are drinks containers and put them in bins, which is dangerous,' he said.
