Changes to the WEEE regulations, including creation of dedicated category for vapes

Significant changes to the WEEE regulations are currently in progress. Two major updates taking effect, with the intention of closing existing loopholes and ensuring fairer cost treatment for end-of-life management of electronic products.

1. Dedicated Category for Vapes 

A crucial change involves creating a dedicated category for vapes, which currently fall under the broader ‘toys and leisure equipment’ category. This new classification (Category 7.1) will require vape producers to pay specifically for the end-of-life management of their products, addressing the unique challenges these items present for recycling due to their difficulty in processing and substances like nicotine. This change is expected to take effect on the week commencing 4th August.

2. Online Marketplaces 

Online marketplaces now classified as producers must register with producer compliance schemes by 15 November 2025, with quarterly data reporting requirements beginning from the date of the regulation's implementation.

We would encourage you to find out more on this by watching DEFRA’s forum update on YouTube.

The amended regulations can also be found here: The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Amendment, etc.) Regulations 2025

Further guidance from DEFRA will follow in due course, which SGF will share once available.