Vaping products, composed of lithium batteries and plastic, can pose a significant threat to the environment when mishandled. VPZ, a leading vape retailer in the UK, has taken bold steps to address this issue, pledging to safely recycle all types of vaping devices by 2023.
In a statement released by Doug Mutter, VPZ director, he stated, “We believe this innovative service and intervention is vital in responding to an emerging environmental problem, while educating vapers on the benefits of using reusable and more sustainable products.”
To this end, VPZ has launched a recycling service that is now available in all of their 150+ stores throughout the UK. This service is open to all vapers and provides an easy and safe way for vapers to dispose of their vaping devices or e-cigarettes.
In partnership with WasteCare, VPZ has put in place measures to collect, treat, and recover disposable vapes and reusable hardware devices safely. The WasteCare plant, situated in Elland, West Yorkshire, will handle the recycling processes of all discarded vaping products.
According to Mutter, the innovative recycling service will help keep local environments across the country clean, while educating vapers on being environmentally responsible and using more sustainable vaping products. “Our partnership with WasteCare responds to this challenge head-on, and vapers can come into our network of stores throughout the country to recycle their vape devices in a safe and responsible way,” he added.
The WasteCare Group, established in 1980, is the UK’s largest independent recycling company specializing in hazardous and challenging waste streams. Peter Hunt, Managing Director of WasteCare, lauded VPZ’s initiative and said, “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.”
VPZ’s innovative efforts to reduce environmental hazards caused by vaping products come in a period of significant unregulated product demand. Hence, Mutter urges the UK and Scottish governments to introduce tighter controls and licensing for selling vaping products. This move intended to align with countries like New Zealand, where flavoured products can only be sold from specialist licensed vaping stores.
“We are urging the UK government to act now and follow best practices from countries like New Zealand, where consultation is aimed towards adult smokers and vapers. Thus, ensuring that an appropriate challenge 25 policy is in place,” Mutter concluded.
