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Closed petition PE2175: Immediate ban on the sale and use of Disposable (Instant) Barbeques in Scotland
Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Government to table new legislation which will ban the sale of disposable barbeques by retailers and introduce on the spot fines for anyone using a disposable barbeque in Scotland.
Background information
In the past 5 years, there has been a rise in irresponsible outdoor access, which combined with climate change, has increased wildfire risk significantly. This spring/summer has been one of the warmest and driest on record and we have already seen several major wildfires. The Isle of Arran wildfire destroyed 27,000 trees. The Glen Finglas (Trossachs) wildfire destroyed several hectares of woodland (directly caused by a disposable barbeque). And more recently, one of the largest wildfires in Scottish history in Dava / Lochindorb with 11,800 hectares lost.
Along with campfires, disposable barbeques are the single biggest ignition risk for a wildfire. The heat transferred when placed on the ground can cause peat, heather and/or grass to burn which can start a fire. They are also a nightmare to dispose of and cannot be recycled. There are several safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives for those wishing to have a barbeque outdoors.
As climate change progresses, the continued use of disposable barbeques poses an increasing threat of causing wildfires, which continue to cause devastation to our communities and wild places across Scotland.
This petition was considered by the Scottish Parliament
2,158 signatures