Disposable nitrous oxide tanks: the problem explained

From chargers to tanks

Before 2023, cylinders could often be refilled or returned for a deposit. Since the ban, mostly disposable tanks circulate. The Dutch public health institute’s March 2026 note says the small chargers seem to have disappeared from the streets, replaced by disposable tanks from brands including Fastgas.

Why tanks are riskier

• More per session. Filling balloons from large tanks raises the chance of health problems (Trimbos Institute). In 2023, 40.2% of Dutch vocational students who had used in the past month took ten or more balloons per session (RIVM).
• Frostbite. The gas leaves the tank ice-cold. Dutch burns centres have treated severe freezing injuries, some leaving permanent scars (DrugsInfo).
• No safe limit. According to the RIVM, even one balloon can cause tingling. See health risks.

Explosions in waste incinerators

Tanks without a venting system can explode in incinerators (NOS Nieuwsuur). Amsterdam’s waste-to-energy company AEB has reported more frequent and louder explosions since January 2023. Since March 2025 it checks around 1,800 tonnes of household and 1,250 tonnes of commercial waste a week and shreds the tanks it finds (NH Nieuws) — yet in 2025 it still reported 15 to 20 explosions a week.

Who pays

AEB put the damage at up to €20 million a year in 2024 (AT5) and passes the costs on to municipalities, which recover them through local taxes. A national deposit scheme has been proposed but not introduced.

Found a tank?

Don’t bin it, open it or heat it. See what to do with a discarded cylinder.