Green Wings Project was honoured to attend the Vaper Expo UK once again in 2024, marking our third presence at one of the vaping industry’s largest exhibitions. Held from October 25-27 at Birmingham’s NEC, this year’s winter expo provided a crucial platform for Green Wings Project to promote our mission of responsible vape recycling and to address the ever-evolving landscape of vape regulations.

Raising Awareness Amid Regulatory Changes

The vaping industry is at a pivotal juncture, as recent discussions in the UK are calling for more stringent regulations. Media outlets have been highlighting both the environmental concerns and regulatory responses to the widespread use of disposable vapes. According to the BBC, the sale of single-use disposable vapes will be banned in England and Wales from June next year, confirmed by the government.

As Green Wings Project continues to work toward sustainable vape disposal solutions, we acknowledge that even with a ban, the environmental challenges caused by discarded vapes will persist. With their lithium batteries and plastic components, disposable vapes that have already been manufactured will continue to pose risks to landfills, soil, and waterways, underscoring the need for dedicated recycling solutions.

Expanding Services for Broader Impact

At Vaper Expo, we had the opportunity to share how Green Wings Project is evolving to meet these ongoing environmental challenges. Already partnered with convenience stores, vape retailers, the British Army and Royal Navy, and various hospitals across the UK, we are actively expanding our recycling services. Our goal is to make vape disposal as accessible and environmentally responsible as possible, regardless of future regulatory changes.

Pictured: The Royal Navy with our celebrated vape recycling tube

Green Wings Project is committed to innovating within our current programmes and launching new partnerships. This includes more comprehensive recycling initiatives in collaboration with local authorities, waste management partners, and educational institutions to enhance public awareness and involvement. We believe this expanded approach will not only mitigate the immediate waste impact of disposable vapes but also foster a broader culture of sustainability in the vaping community and beyond.

A Sustainable Future with Continued Industry Support

This winter’s Vaper Expo was particularly meaningful, as we again received a complimentary stand from the event organisers. Their generous support has allowed us to amplify our message to a wider audience, engaging directly with attendees, and build on our network of industry partners who share our vision for sustainable vaping.

With the support of key brands and industry players, Green Wings Project will continue to pursue initiatives that prioritise environmental health and resource conservation. As we look to the future, we invite all stakeholders—retailers, consumers, and industry leaders—to join us in embracing sustainable practices.

Thank you to Vaper Expo UK for another successful and impactful event! Together, we can address the environmental impact of vape disposal and shape a cleaner, greener future.

About Green Wings Project

Established in 2022, Green Wings Project is a charity organisation aiming to promote, for the benefit of the public, the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment through promoting, identifying and advancing solutions for recycling, reuse and harmless disposal of disposable / single-use electronic products. Currently, we are running a focused initiative on disposable vape recycling.

For further information and collaborations, contact us via info@greenwingsproject.org; consider DONATING via this link to keep our pro bono service running.