In the UK, the improper disposal of disposable vapes has emerged as a pressing issue over the past year. Recent research conducted by the BBC reveals a startling statistic: a whopping five million single-use vapes are discarded each week, marking a fourfold increase compared to the previous year. Even more concerning is the fact that merely 17% of vapers are correctly recycling their used vapes.
Amid mounting concerns from consumers and retailers alike about this escalating problem, Phoenix 2 Retail, the UK’s fastest-growing vape supplier, is taking proactive steps to address the issue head-on.
Chris Kelly, CEO of Phoenix 2 Retail, stated, “We know everyone sees the colossal impact single-use vapes have on the environment, which is why we have been working on a 360-degree recycling solution for retailers for several months. Phoenix 2 Retail is set to roll out over 200 recycling units this month, followed by a further 5,000 units by the end of the year, subject to retailer agreements. We aim to reach all 15,000 retailers by the following year, ensuring at least one recycling unit per store. This step is part of our company’s ongoing efforts to tackle the issue of improper vape disposal”.
By offering these recycling units, Phoenix 2 Retail aims to motivate vapers to dispose of their single-use vapes in an eco-conscious manner. The company believes that by making recycling units accessible and convenient, a larger number of vapers will willingly choose to recycle their vapes responsibly.
To ensure the proper disposal of collected vapes, Phoenix 2 Retail has entered into a partnership with a registered waste management company.
For retailers, the process is straightforward: once the recycling units reach capacity, the waste management company collects them, replacing them with empty units. All vapes collected through these units undergo recycling within the UK, guaranteeing that each unit is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. By collaborating with a registered waste management company, Phoenix 2 Retail demonstrates its commitment to responsible and sustainable vape disposal. This partnership ensures the recycling of all vapes collected through these units, thereby diminishing the environmental impact of non-biodegradable waste. This initiative underscores Phoenix 2 Retail’s dedication to both its customers and the environment.
Phoenix 2 Retail’s commitment to addressing the issue of improper vape disposal is an integral part of their ongoing efforts to safeguard the vaping category within the FMCG sector. Their initiative represents a significant stride in raising awareness about this problem and working towards a more sustainable future.
For further information on the Phoenix 2 Retail recycling rollout, please do not hesitate to contact Jackie Reed, Head of Quality & Compliance, at [email protected].
