VPZ has teamed up with WasteCare to launch a nationwide recycling service for vaping devices and e-cigarettes.
The service is now live across the whole VPZ’s network of more than 150 stores throughout the UK.
Open to all vapers, anyone can visit a store and dispose of their vapes, with recycling processes then handled by WasteCare - collecting, treating and recovering disposable vapes and reusable hardware devices from its plant in West Yorkshire.
The Edinburgh-based retailer and manufacturer claims to have already helped more than 700,000 smokers in the UK quit since it was established in 2012.
Director Doug Mutter commented: “We are excited to be launching this ground-breaking service with WasteCare to respond to an emerging environmental issue.
“Any form of littering is unacceptable, however the proliferation of disposable vape use has led to single-use devices being discarded in local environments.
“Our service will also help us engage with adult smokers and vapers to educate them on the sustainable and environmental benefits of using reusable products,” he added.
The WasteCare Group was established in 1980. Employing more than 500 personnel across 17 regional centres, the company is the UK’s largest independent recycling company, specialising in recovering value from hazardous waste streams.
“With the growing demand for vapes and e-cigarettes, we are delighted that VPZ is leading the way in providing a safe and environmentally sound way to tackle what is becoming a major challenge,” explained Peter Hunt, managing director of Wastecare.
“WasteCare is the UK’s only permitted recycler of portable batteries.
“Every vape contains a lithium battery and our plant is designed to safely recover the precious material from the vaping device, as well as the metal and plastic components in it.”
VPZ stated that it continues to call on both the UK and Scottish governments to introduce tighter controls and licensing for selling vaping products.
Mutter added: “At the moment we have a challenge in the industry where many imported, unregulated, disposable vaping products are readily available from local convenience stores, supermarkets and several other general retailers with no age verification checks or control in place.
“This is an emerging problem that threatens the huge progress of vaping in transforming the health of the nation and helping the country meet its smoke-free targets.
“We are urging the UK Government to act now and follow best practices from countries like New Zealand, where flavoured products can only be sold from specialist licensed vaping stores,“ he continued, adding: “Thus, ensuring that an appropriate challenge 25 policy is in place and consultation is aimed towards adult smokers and vapers.”
Don't miss the latest headlines with our twice-daily newsletter - sign up here for free.
