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Call for refundable deposit on vapes
UK waste management companies are urging the government to introduce a £5 refundable deposit on vapes to encourage proper disposal and reduce fire hazards in waste facilities.
Why a deposit is proposed
Despite a ban on disposable vapes a year ago, hundreds of thousands continue to be discarded improperly each week, posing significant fire risks in bin lorries and recycling plants. The Environmental Services Association (ESA) argues that a deposit scheme would incentivise consumers to return used vapes for recycling.
Lithium batteries in vapes can short-circuit when crushed, igniting fires in waste processing facilities. The ESA describes the deposit as a "simple, fair, and cost-neutral solution" to address the issue.
Current recycling efforts fall short
Vapes can already be returned to retailers or recycling centres, but compliance remains low. Patrick Brighty, ESA's head of recycling policy, stated that the existing take-back infrastructure is "underperforming" due to a lack of consumer incentives.
"Each week, waste operators see hundreds of thousands of carelessly discarded vapes hidden among other rubbish, creating a major fire risk. These vapes are also unlikely to be recycled, wasting valuable materials."
Patrick Brighty, ESA
Carla Brian of Biffa, the UK's largest waste firm, echoed the need for behavioural change, arguing that a financial incentive would drive compliance.
Industry opposition and enforcement gaps
Not all vape companies support the deposit scheme. Marcus Saxton, chairman of the Independent British Vape Trade Association, warned it could push consumers toward illicit retailers who evade the charge.
"Retailers flouting legal obligations won't enforce this, and consumers may turn to black-market sources, worsening the problem."
Marcus Saxton, Independent British Vape Trade Association
The Local Government Association (LGA) has called for stricter enforcement and a ban on reusable vapes that mimic disposable designs. Councillor Dr Wendy Taylor noted that while vape volumes in waste have declined, many products remain effectively disposable despite regulatory changes.
Government response and next steps
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) did not directly address the deposit proposal. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds highlighted existing measures to tackle vape-related harm but emphasised holding retailers accountable for providing recycling bins.
Material Focus, a recycling organisation, reports that weekly discarded vapes have dropped from 8.2 million to 6 million since the ban, though the figure remains high. The ESA's proposal will require consultation if pursued further.
