When we talk about vaping and sustainability in the UK, the spotlight often falls on disposable vapes. But there’s another crucial part of the picture that deserves just as much attention — rechargeable vape batteries.
Whether your vape kit uses replaceable 18650 cells or an integrated lithium-ion battery, how you dispose of them at the end of their life has a big impact on safety, the environment, and your community.
Why Proper Vape Battery Disposal Matters
It might seem harmless to throw an old vape battery into the household bin, but the consequences can be serious. Vape batteries contain lithium, cobalt, and other metals that can leak into soil and water if they end up in landfill. Even more alarming is the fire risk — damaged or punctured lithium-ion batteries can ignite or even explode when crushed or compacted.
This isn’t just a theoretical concern. The National Fire Chiefs Council reported over 1,200 fires in UK bin lorries and waste facilities last year alone — a 71% increase from 2022. From Nottingham to Cambridge and London, incidents linked to discarded batteries have caused significant damage, disruption, and danger to workers and the public.
These fires are now estimated to cost the UK more than £1 billion each year. Beyond the risks, it’s also illegal to dispose of vape batteries with household waste under UK law.
How Vape Batteries Are Classified in the UK
In the UK, vape batteries fall under the same regulations as other rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. This includes the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive and the Batteries Regulations.
The rule is simple but essential — vape batteries must not be placed in your household rubbish or standard recycling bin.
How to Safely Recycle Vape Batteries
Fortunately, disposing of vape batteries responsibly is easy. Many supermarkets, local councils, and vape shops — including an increasing number of specialist retailers — offer battery recycling drop-off points. You can check your local recycling centre or your nearest My Vapery store for a safe and convenient disposal option.
Before recycling, take a few simple precautions:
- Fully discharge the battery in your vape device if possible.
- Cover the terminals with electrical tape or place the battery in a plastic case.
- Keep it separate from metal objects such as coins or keys to avoid short-circuits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is also the most common — throwing vape batteries in the bin. This is one of the leading causes of waste fires across the UK.
Storing damaged or swollen batteries at home is also risky, as they can overheat or leak. And while you might think the regular recycling bin is a good alternative, it isn’t. Vape batteries require specialist recycling facilities to be handled safely.
The Bigger Picture
Recycling vape batteries responsibly has far-reaching benefits. It:
- Allows valuable materials like lithium and cobalt to be recovered and reused.
- Prevents harmful chemicals from contaminating land and water.
- Supports the UK’s circular economy by reducing waste and promoting reuse.
- Reduces the number of dangerous waste fires nationwide.
Final Thoughts
Vaping responsibly goes beyond how you use your device — it’s also about how you dispose of it. With over a thousand fires caused by discarded batteries each year, proper vape battery recycling isn’t just good practice — it’s essential.
So next time your vape battery reaches the end of its life, don’t throw it in the bin. Tape the terminals, take it to a recycling point, and know that you’re helping protect your community and the planet.
Recycle your vape batteries — for your safety, your environment, and your neighbours.
