ACS is reminding retailers about resources and advice available to them to promote their vape recycling service to customers.

Since the start of 2024, all vape sellers have an obligation to provide a vape recycling facility to customers. This is usually delivered in the format of a tube-style bin that customers can return used vapes to, or a box at the till point.

At a minimum, retailers have to provide a recycling facility on a one-for-one basis, meaning that a retailer only has to accept a vape for recycling if the customer is purchasing a new one. Many retailers have opted to provide a bin or container in-store for anyone to return their vapes. Research from Material Focus has suggested that the number of vapes and pods thrown away each week has fallen from 8.2m per week in 2025 to 6.3m per week now.

ACS chief executive Ed Woodall said: “Convenience retailers are supporting customers to recycle their vapes, with many providing facilities that are being underused because there has been inadequate communication from Government about how, where and why customers should recycle.

"Whether on vape recycling, illicit vapes or action to prevent under age sales we need to see more enforcement action from government when new regulations are introduced. Responsible retailers should not be burdened with new regulations if we can't enforce them."

More information about vape recycling and how to offer that service is available as part of our Selling Vapes Responsibly guide here: https://www.acs.org.uk/advice/selling-vapes .

ACS has also created a template poster for retailers to display in their store, highlighting the vape recycling service that they offer, which is available here.