Statutory Instrument Laid in Parliament for New Category of EEE for Vapes

A new Statutory Instrument (SI) has been introduced in Parliament, creating a dedicated category for vapes under the UK's electrical waste regulations.

While the changes will likely be limited for retailers, they will place new responsibilities on vape manufacturers. Once the regulations are in force, producers will be required to report the weight of vape products placed on the UK market. This will enable DEFRA to set specific collection targets for vapes starting in 2026. Producers will also be fully responsible for covering the costs associated with recycling and proper disposal.

Online marketplaces that sell vapes from overseas suppliers will now be treated as producers under the WEEE regulations. They will be required to join approved compliance schemes, pay registration fees, and report data on the equipment they place on the market. The government has produced slides explaining the SI here.