The UK Throws Away 1 Million Vapes Each Day, Causing ‘Environmental Nightmare’

New research by Material Focus has revealed that the UK throws away over a million vapes each day, leading to an “environmental nightmare.” The disposal of these lithium-ion battery powered devices can cause fires if not done correctly, as well as posing a toxic threat to the environment and wildlife if they end up as litter. Despite a ban on single-use vapes set to come into effect in 2025, companies are already finding loopholes with new “big puff” vapes that may skirt the regulations.

While 80% of the materials in disposable vapes are recyclable, only 20% of people currently recycle them, though this number is on the rise. More accessible recycling drop-off points are needed, according to Material Focus, to make recycling vapes as easy as buying them. The impact of discarded vapes is not just on the environment, but also on animals who can be poisoned or killed by ingesting them or their contents, leading to calls from the RSPCA for better disposal practices.