A new report has revealed the alarming environmental impact of disposable vapes, with 13 being discarded every second in the UK—over a million a day.
This statistic has raised concerns about the growing environmental crisis caused by single-use vaping products, which often contain hazardous materials such as lithium-ion batteries.
Research commissioned by Material Focus and conducted by Opinium has uncovered some startling figures. The rise of “big puff” vapes, which can hold up to 6,000 puffs—compared to the standard 600 puffs of a regular disposable—has further exacerbated the problem.
With approximately three million of these larger vapes being purchased every week, a staggering 8.2 million vapes are thrown away or improperly recycled each week in the UK alone.
The UK government is taking action, with a ban on single-use vapes set to come into effect in June 2025. This move aims to address both the environmental damage and the increasing use of vapes by children.
Under the new legislation, only rechargeable vapes or those with refillable cartridges will be allowed to be sold. While this ban is seen as a positive step, experts warn that it may not be enough to tackle the broader environmental issues associated with vaping products.
A key concern is the lithium-ion batteries contained in all types of vapes, which can be dangerous if damaged or crushed.
When these batteries are improperly disposed of, they can cause fires in bin lorries and waste centers. According to the research, the number of fires linked to vaping products increased by 71% last year compared to 2022.
In addition to fire hazards, vapes are also contributing to environmental degradation. The valuable materials inside vapes, such as lithium and copper, often end up in landfill, wasting critical resources that could otherwise be recycled.
Material Focus estimates that the annual number of vapes discarded could instead power more than 10,000 electric vehicles. Moreover, vapes can pose a toxic threat to wildlife when littered, with many ending up in public spaces and natural environments.
Scott Butler, executive director of Material Focus, emphasized the need for urgent action. He called for the introduction of takeback systems in retail stores and for greater awareness about recycling options.
“Vape producers are being infinitely creative with their products in order to avoid the forthcoming disposable vape ban,” Butler said. “We might need more flexible legislation to deal with the ongoing challenges of new products surging onto the market.”
Material Focus is pushing for accessible and visible vape recycling drop-off points in various public spaces, including schools, offices, parks, bars, and universities.
The organization is also calling for stronger financial responsibility from retailers and producers to fund recycling solutions that can recover valuable materials and reduce fire risks.
Butler added, “It should be as easy to recycle a vape as it is to buy one. We need more vapers demanding that where they buy their products, they also provide recycling points. It is a legal obligation for all those who sell vapes to offer this service.”
As the UK prepares for the upcoming ban on single-use vapes, it is clear that more must be done to address the environmental challenges posed by the growing popularity of vaping. The urgent need for comprehensive recycling solutions, along with better waste management practices, is crucial to reducing the environmental footprint of the vaping industry.
