OPINION: The ban on single-use vapes that came into effect on 1 June 2025 was a significant step forward for the UK’s environmental agenda. However, we now face a new challenge: ensuring that reusable and refillable vapes don’t simply become the next environmental hazard.
Despite the shift away from disposable products, many consumers continue to treat reusable vapes as single-use items, discarding them after use rather than recycling them. This behaviour isn’t just wasteful, it’s environmentally damaging. Today’s vapes contain batteries, electronics and various recyclable materials that should never end up in landfill.
When vapes are improperly disposed of, we lose valuable resources that could be recovered and reused. More concerning is the environmental harm caused by the toxic substances within these devices leaching into soil and water systems. The lithium-ion batteries found in vapes pose a particular risk, with the potential to cause fires in waste collection vehicles and processing facilities.
A solution already in place
The good news is that a solution already exists. Under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations, all UK retailers selling vapes must provide a collection facility for consumers to return used devices when purchasing new ones. This obligation applies regardless of the retailer’s size or turnover.
For retailers with EEE sales areas exceeding 400 square metres, the requirements go further. They must take back all “very small WEEE” (items less than 25cm on their longest side) free of charge, regardless of whether a purchase is made.
Across the UK, take-back schemes are available in stores, offering consumers an easy way to return used vapes responsibly. The infrastructure is in place, but there’s a critical missing link.
The awareness gap
The challenge we face isn’t a lack of recycling facilities but a lack of knowledge. Most consumers simply don’t know these take-back services exist in small shops, or large. This awareness gap represents a significant opportunity for retailers to demonstrate environmental leadership while fulfilling their legal obligations.
At ERP UK, we’re seeing more vape manufacturers signing up to do the right thing. They don’t want their products ending up in landfill. But manufacturers can’t solve this problem alone. Retailers must also step up, actively promote their take-back schemes, and help build a circular system where products are recycled, not wasted.
Supporting retailers to make a difference
We understand that for many retailers, particularly smaller independent stores, implementing and managing a take-back scheme might seem daunting. That’s why recycling experts such as ERP UK, have developed solutions to make compliance straightforward.
We provide ready-to-use collection containers in a variety of sizes, designed specifically for point-of-sale collection of used vapes. Our online service makes booking collections simple, removing the administrative burden from busy retail staff.
But providing a recycling bin is only part of the story. Actively promoting it is key to success. Clear signage, staff prompts, and visible in-store messaging can transform a legal obligation into a positive statement about your business values.
Leading the change
Retailers are on the frontline of public education about vape recycling. By prominently displaying recycling bins supported by clear, informative posters, and training staff to explain the importance of proper disposal, stores can drive significant behavioural change.
The messages we need to communicate is simple:
- Vapes can and should be recycled
- Retailers who sell vapes all offer convenient take-back schemes
- Consumers have an important role to play in the process
Building a circular system
Research shows that 80% of vape materials are recyclable. A 2023 study by Material Focus revealed that the UK discards enough lithium through improper vape disposal each year to power 5,000 electric vehicle batteries. While the ban on single-use vapes has helped, the industry is far from circular.
The infrastructure exists. The rules are clear. The support is there. Now it’s time for retailers and consumers to act, making vape recycling the rule, not the exception.
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