Waste management firm, Biffa, has called for the introduction of a mandatory vape deposit return scheme whereby consumers would pay a £5 deposit when purchasing a vape, which would then be returned when the vape was disposed of via existing retailer takeback schemes.
The firm claims that, despite a ban on the sale of single use vapes, which was introduced in June 2025 to help reduce waste, many vapes are still being thrown away incorrectly, which creates a fire hazard due to the high flammability of lithium batteries.
A Biffa survey showed that two thirds (66%) of 1,000 respondents know that vapes improperly disposed of in household and commercial bins can cause fires, yet fewer than four in ten (38%) take them back to store for safe disposal and recycling.
The company’s research found 85% of consumers would be motivated to return devices if a deposit return scheme was in operation.
Carla Brian, Biffa’s Director of Public Affairs & Partnerships, said: “Many people already have a good understanding of how to dispose of vapes safely and the fire risks these devices can pose if they end up in the wrong place.
“However, the current system doesn’t make it easy or rewarding enough for them to do it consistently. Takeback schemes are available across the UK, but participation remains relatively low – suggesting there’s an opportunity to make them more accessible and appealing for consumers. Introducing a simple incentive could make a real difference, giving people a tangible reason to return their used vapes and helping ensure more devices are recycled safely.
“While rechargeable vapes are a step forward from single-use products, the environmental and safety challenges don’t disappear if they’re not disposed of correctly. Without further action, lithium batteries will continue to pose a risk within the waste stream, affecting infrastructure and the people working on the frontline. That’s why an incentive return model could be such a practical solution – building on existing systems while encouraging higher return rates through positive incentives.”
