Despite a government ban on single-use vapes implemented a year ago, approximately 6.3 million vapes have been discarded, posing significant fire hazards. Campaigners urge the government to redefine single-use vapes to include new styles that mimic disposables. A lack of awareness and recycling facilities contributes to the issue.

• 01Around 6.3 million vapes and pods were discarded in the past year despite a ban on single-use devices.
• 02A survey revealed that 47% of adults were unaware that vapes could be recycled, and 43% could not find recycling points.
• 03Biffa reported finding over two million incorrectly discarded vapes at just four sites, averaging nearly 300 vapes per hour.
• 04Fire incidents linked to lithium-ion batteries in vapes continue, with local councils bearing the costs of contamination and fires.
• 05Industry leaders propose a deposit return scheme to incentivize the return of vapes, with 85% of vapers indicating they would participate.

The improper disposal of vapes leads to increased fire risks and contamination in recycling processes, affecting local waste management efforts.