Recycling & Sustainability

Last updated: June 2026

We're a Manchester-based vape store, and we take the waste side of vaping seriously. The June 2025 ban on single-use disposables cut the number of devices being binned. It didn't end the problem, though. Here's an honest look at where things stand in 2026, and how to recycle your old vapes with us, wherever you are in the UK.

The 2026 picture

The ban worked, up to a point. Around 6.3 million vapes and pods are still thrown away across the UK every week, down from 8.2 million in 2024. The numbers are falling, but we're a long way from sorted.

Big puff devices and single-use pods are a big part of why. The pods are roughly the same size as the disposables they replaced, so the plastic going into bins on the high street hasn't really shrunk. The lithium batteries inside are the bigger worry: thrown in with general waste, they cause fires in bin lorries and recycling centres. And recycling points are still too hard to find, which doesn't help anyone. (Figures: Material Focus, 2026.)

Our Veolia recycling partnership

We've partnered with Veolia, the UK's leading resource-management company and one of the few Approved Authorised Treatment Facilities (AATF) able to recycle vape products properly. Through the scheme, the parts that can be recycled go back into the manufacturing supply chain, and the parts that can't are used to recover energy for heating.

We'll take any brand, bought anywhere, not just what you bought from us. It's our answer to the Government's call for vape businesses to take responsibility for the waste they profit from.

One important thing: please don't try to take vape casings or batteries apart yourself. Bring them to us or send them in, and we'll handle it safely.

How to recycle your vapes with us

If you're in or near Manchester

Drop your old vapes, pods and batteries into our store at 3-4 Sagar Street, Greater Manchester, M8 8EU. We take all brands and types through our Veolia partnership, including devices you didn't buy from us.

If you're anywhere else in the UK

Get in touch and we'll sort you a return label, so you can post your used vapes back to us for recycling. Email contact@vape360.co.uk or call 0161 564 9336 and we'll set it up.

If you'd rather not post them

Whatever you do, don't put vapes, pods or batteries in your general waste, the batteries are a real fire risk. Use a battery or small-electricals recycling point (most large supermarkets have one), your council's WEEE collection, or find your nearest drop-off at recycleyourelectricals.org.uk.

Recycling your e-liquid bottles

Empty e-liquid bottles are straightforward. Rinse out any leftover liquid first, then recycle the bottle, cap and nib with your household plastics, and the box with your cardboard. Keep batteries and devices separate, though, those come to us or go to a battery point, never the kerbside bin.

Our sustainability commitments

  • We point people towards reusable and refillable kits over single-use and big puff devices.
  • We recycle any vape product through Veolia, wherever it was bought.
  • We give honest, plain guidance on how to dispose of vapes properly.
  • We work with suppliers to cut down packaging and use more recyclable materials.
  • We back sensible regulation and industry-wide recycling schemes.

Ways to vape more sustainably

  • Go for a refillable pod system. One device can last months, with just pods or coils to replace.
  • Buy your e-liquid in bigger bottles where you can, to cut down on packaging.
  • Look after your device and keep it clean, and it'll last longer.
  • Pick kits with replaceable parts rather than sealed, throwaway units.
  • Store and charge your batteries properly to get the most life out of them.

Recycling FAQs

Are big puff vapes recyclable?

Yes, just not in your general waste. They've got a rechargeable lithium battery and electronics inside, so bring them to our store, ask us for a return label, or use a battery and electricals recycling point.

How do I recycle used pods?

Pods have plastic and a small heating element in them, so they belong with electricals and batteries, not in your kitchen bin. Drop them off with us, post them back, or take them to a vape or small-electricals point.

Can vape batteries be recycled?

Yes, but only at proper battery recycling points or through our Veolia scheme. Never put them in your general waste.

Do I need to empty my tank or bottle first?

Yes. Empty out any e-liquid and give tanks and bottles a quick rinse before recycling.

Where can I drop off or send used vapes?

At our store at 3-4 Sagar Street, Greater Manchester, M8 8EU, or get in touch for a return label and post them back from anywhere in the UK. Through Veolia we take all brands and types.

Contact us about recycling

Email: contact@vape360.co.uk
Phone: 0161 564 9336
Store and drop-off: 3-4 Sagar Street, Greater Manchester, M8 8EU
Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 5pm