The improper disposal of disposable vapes has emerged as a pressing issue in the UK over the past year. Recent research by the BBC has revealed a staggering statistic – five million disposable vapes are discarded every week, marking a fourfold increase from the previous year. Even more alarming, the study uncovered that merely 17% of vapers ensure proper recycling of their vapes, raising serious environmental concerns.
In response to the growing concerns of both consumers and retailers regarding the surge in single-use vape waste, 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, commented, “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”.
Through the provision of these recycling units, Phoenix 2 Retail aims to encourage vapers to dispose of their single-use vapes in an environmentally responsible manner. The company firmly believes that by making recycling units readily accessible and convenient, more vapers will be inclined to recycle their vapes properly.
Phoenix 2 Retail has joined forces with a registered waste management company to ensure the proper disposal of the collected vapes.
The process is straightforward for retailers; once the recycling units reach full capacity, the waste management company collects them and replaces them with empty units. All vapes collected via these units are subsequently recycled within the UK, guaranteeing that each unit is disposed of in an eco-friendly manner. By partnering with a registered waste management company, Phoenix 2 Retail is adopting a responsible and sustainable approach to tackle vape disposal, contributing significantly to the reduction of the environmental impact caused by non-biodegradable waste. This collaborative effort underscores Phoenix 2 Retail’s commitment to its customers and the environment.
Phoenix 2 Retail’s dedication to addressing the improper vape disposal issue forms part of their ongoing mission to safeguard the vaping category within the FMCG sector. Their initiative represents a crucial stride forward in raising awareness about this problem and working collaboratively towards a more sustainable future.
For more information about the Phoenix 2 Retail recycling rollout, please don’t hesitate to contact Jackie Reed, Head of Quality & Compliance, at Jackie.reed@phoenix2retail.co.uk.
