Press Release
For immediate release

CIWM Reaffirms Support for UK Disposable Vape Ban From 1 June 2025

With the ban on single-use (also known as ‘disposable’) vapes due to take place on 1 June 2025, CIWM reaffirms our support for this measure. Announced by the UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in October 2024 , this policy represents a practical and welcome move towards a world beyond waste. 

This ban helps to eliminate a complex waste stream – in turn reducing litter, improving the health and safety of resources and waste operatives, and protecting critical raw materials, such as lithium and copper. 

CIWM recognises the real-world challenges that disposable vapes pose for the resource and waste management sector. The mix of materials included in these items make them difficult to recycle effectively, with the risk of improper disposal leading to potential environmental issues and safety concerns within waste facilities.

"The introduction of a disposable vape ban is a sensible step in the right direction for managing a challenging waste stream and supporting circular economy principles," says Dan Cooke, Director of Policy, Communications and External Affairs. "As previously stated, tackling the environmental impact of single-use items is a key part of minimising unnecessary waste and building a more circular and sustainable planet."

The UK Government guidance clarifies that from 1 June 2025, it will be illegal for businesses to sell or supply, offer to sell or supply, or have in their possession for sale or supply all single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes, whether they contain nicotine or not. This includes both in-person and online sales. Reusable vapes, defined as both rechargeable and refillable, will still be permitted. The guidance provides clear definitions of single-use and reusable vapes, outlining criteria such as battery rechargeability and the ability to refill or replace pods and coils separately.

CIWM recognises the importance of businesses understanding these definitions and preparing for the ban. The guidance also highlights the legal obligations for businesses to assist enforcing authorities and provide evidence that their products comply with the regulations. Penalties for non-compliance, enforced by bodies like Trading Standards, can include fines and even imprisonment in more serious cases.

It's important to highlight the key point from the guidance regarding the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations. Regardless of the ban, all vapes are electrical items and distributors (sellers) have a responsibility to offer a ‘take back’ service for recycling returned vapes and vape parts. The Office for Product Safety and Standards can take action against businesses that do not have a system for safely recycling vapes. Businesses holding stock of single-use vapes after the ban comes into effect will need to arrange for their recycling.

CIWM looks forward to continued collaboration with government, members, and the wider resources and waste sector to ensure the smooth implementation of this ban and to promote comprehensive strategies for managing all waste streams related to vaping. This includes exploring viable solutions for the sustainable handling of any alternative devices that may emerge and ensuring businesses are aware of their responsibilities under the WEEE regulations.

The upcoming ban on disposable vapes is a pragmatic step towards addressing this issue and advancing the broader goals of resource efficiency and a circular economy, and CIWM anticipates the positive impact it will have on the sector and the environment.

ENDS


Notes to Editors

Press contact:

Kacie Foskett
T: +44 (0) 1604 620426
E: kacie.foskett@ciwm.co.uk