UK to Make Vape Sellers Pay for E-Waste Disposal

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UK Waste Plants by Disposable Vapes

The UK government has announced new plans that will require vape sellers and online marketplaces to pay for the cost of recycling their products at the end of their life. This “polluter pays” principle is part of a broader strategy to “end the UK’s throwaway culture” and manage the growing problem of electrical waste (e-waste).

Under the new measures, online vendors of electrical goods, including those selling items like microwaves and computers from overseas, will have to contribute to recycling fees. This aims to level the playing field for UK-based companies, who currently cover these costs, placing them at a competitive disadvantage. Companies like Amazon will need to register with the Environment Agency and report sales data from their overseas sellers to determine the appropriate recycling charges.

A new, specific category has been created for vapes to ensure that the costs of their collection and treatment fall fairly on the producers. This addresses the significant environmental issue posed by discarded e-cigarettes, which contain valuable materials like lithium and copper but are often thrown away. According to the non-profit Material Focus, the amount of rare earths discarded in vapes over the past three years could have powered over 16,000 electric vehicles.

Scott Butler, executive director of Material Focus, welcomed the new vape category, stating it provides an opportunity to “tighten up the environmental enforcement of vapes” and ensure producers make a “fair contribution to the costs of recycling.” The government hopes the levies will fund investment in critical recycling infrastructure and reduce litter.

Matthew Ma
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