UK Govt: retailers must offer ‘vape pod’ takeback alongside other WEEE recycling
The UK Government’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs has confirmed that
unwanted ‘vape pods’ are also counted as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), and therefore retailers that sell vape and/or WEEE products must offer a takeback service if customers return them to their shop for recycling.
For Guidance on complying to the WEEE regulations go to: Regulations: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) - GOV.UK
For the most recent SGF guidance on selling vape products in Scotland download: SGF Retailers' Guide: Regulations for Vaping & Tobacco Compliance – May 2025
The sale of disposable vapes is now illegal in Scotland, for information on the ban and guidance for retailers go to: SGF Retailer Guidance: Single-Use Vape Ban from 1st June 2025.
Please note that over the coming months further changes to the regulations on the sale of vape and tobacco products are expected to be introduced through the UK Government’s Tobacco and Vape Bill.
SGF will keep continue to keep members informed as the situation progresses, but we recommend that you contact your local Trading Standards office to ensure full compliance with the law.