ELFBAR and SGF initiate “Recycle Used Vapes” programme

ELFBAR and the Scottish Grocers’ Federation (SGF) have announced today the free provision of 1,000 co-branded in-store vape bins to SGF members. The campaign to support the acceleration of recycling points for used vapes in Scotland builds on the significant progress that has already been made. Many retailers and outlets in Scotland provide free used vape take-back services and this campaign will significantly increase this offering in the convenience sector. The provision of 1,000 free co-branded bins to SGF members will begin in mid-October.

Single-use vapes are extremely popular amongst adult smokers and ex-smokers in Scotland. Whilst their effectiveness in supporting a smokefree Scotland is evident, it is vital that adults can dispose of their used vapes responsibly. Research conducted by Opinium of 1,000 adults in Scotland showed that the provision of in-store bins is the most effective way to increase recycling levels of used vapes.

Current recycling points for used ELFBAR products is available via the Recycle Your Electricals postcode locator.

SGF CEO Dr Pete Cheema OBE

(Photograph: Mike Wilkinson)

“SGF welcomes the opportunity to work in partnership with ELFBAR to help retailers play their part tackling the environmental damage done by single-use, disposable vaping products," said SGF Chief Executive Dr Pete Cheema OBE. "They can be an important gateway to long-term vaping products for those quitting smoking, but they must stop appearing on our streets and in our parks.

"SGF promotes responsible community retailing and so the opportunity to provide, with ELFBAR, 1,000 free in-store vaping bins to retailers is an important step forward and will feed into the process of providing easy waste and recycling options for disposable vaping products.

We would encourage retailers sign up for a free vaping bin and they will have the perfect opportunity to do so at our SGF Annual Conference which takes place 12 and 13 October at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow.”

Eve Peters

Eve Peters, Director of Government Affairs and spokesperson for ELFBAR in the UK commented:

“ELFBAR is delighted to be working with SGF in the development and delivery of this vital campaign to increase recycling points for used vapes in the convenience sector across Scotland. Single-use vapes are a key entry point for adult smoker’s looking to quit smoking for good, however it is vital that they are disposed of responsibly. As our recently commissioned research shows, the provision of in-store vape bins is the most effective way to increase recycling rates.”