The improper disposal of disposable vapes has emerged as a pressing concern in the United Kingdom over the past year. Recent research conducted by the BBC reveals a shocking statistic: an alarming five million disposable vapes are discarded into the general waste every week, marking a significant fourfold increase compared to the previous year. Even more troubling, the study unveils that a mere 17% of vapers are correctly recycling their vape devices.
Recognising the gravity of the situation and the shared concerns of consumers and retailers alike, Phoenix 2 Retail, the UK’s fastest-growing vape supplier, is taking proactive measures to combat this issue.
Chris Kelly, CEO of Phoenix 2 Retail, emphasised, “We know everyone sees the colossal impact single-use vapes have on the environment, which is why we have been working on a 360-degree recycling solution for retailers for several months. Phoenix 2 Retail is set to roll out over 200 recycling units this month, followed by a further 5,000 units by the end of the year, subject to retailer agreements. We aim to reach all 15,000 retailers by the following year, ensuring at least one recycling unit per store. This step is part of our company’s ongoing efforts to tackle the issue of improper vape disposal”.
By providing easily accessible recycling units, Phoenix 2 Retail aims to encourage vapers to responsibly dispose of their single-use vapes. The company believes that by making recycling convenient, more vapers will be inclined to recycle their devices properly.
To ensure the proper disposal of collected vapes, Phoenix 2 Retail has partnered with a registered waste management company. The process is simple for retailers: once the recycling units are full, the waste management company collects them, replacing them with empty units. All vapes gathered through these units are recycled locally in the UK, ensuring eco-friendly disposal. This partnership with a registered waste management company underscores Phoenix 2 Retail’s commitment to responsible and sustainable vape disposal, reducing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable waste.
Phoenix 2 Retail’s initiative, in collaboration with a registered waste management company, exemplifies its dedication to its customers and the environment. It represents a significant stride towards raising awareness of the improper vape disposal issue and working towards a more sustainable future.
For further information about the Phoenix 2 Retail recycling rollout, please contact Jackie Reed, Head of Quality & Compliance, at Jackie.reed@phoenix2retail.co.uk.
