In the United Kingdom, the alarming issue of improperly disposed disposable vapes has reached critical proportions over the past year. Recent research conducted by the BBC has uncovered a shocking statistic: an astonishing five million disposable vapes are discarded every week, marking a staggering fourfold increase compared to the previous year. Even more worrisome is the fact that only 17% of vapers are correctly recycling their used vapes, leaving the vast majority improperly disposed of.
Acknowledging the pressing concerns of both consumers and retailers regarding the escalating number of single-use vapes ending up in general waste, Phoenix 2 Retail, the fastest-growing vape supplier in the UK, is taking proactive steps to address this environmental crisis head-on.
Chris Kelly, CEO of Phoenix 2 Retail, stated, “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 offering these easily accessible recycling units, Phoenix 2 Retail aims to encourage vapers to responsibly dispose of their single-use vapes. The company firmly believes that by making recycling convenient and straightforward, more vapers will be inclined to recycle their vapes properly.
Phoenix 2 Retail has established a partnership with a registered waste management company to ensure the proper handling and disposal of the collected vapes.
For retailers, the process is straightforward: when the recycling units are filled, the waste management company collects them, promptly replacing them with empty units. All vapes collected through these units are then recycled within the UK, guaranteeing environmentally friendly disposal for every unit. This collaboration with a registered waste management company underscores Phoenix 2 Retail’s dedication to responsible and sustainable vape disposal. This partnership ensures that all vapes collected through these units are recycled, significantly reducing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable waste. Phoenix 2 Retail’s initiative, in conjunction with this registered waste management partner, underscores its commitment to both its customers and the environment.
Phoenix 2 Retail’s proactive stance on addressing improper vape disposal is a pivotal part of their ongoing efforts to safeguard the vaping category within the FMCG sector. Their initiative represents a significant stride in raising awareness about this issue and working towards a sustainable future.
For more information on the Phoenix 2 Retail recycling rollout, please do not hesitate to contact Jackie Reed, Head of Quality & Compliance, at Jackie.reed@phoenix2retail.co.uk.
