A GROUND-BREAKING vape recycling service has been launched in Glasgow. 

VPZ, the UK's largest vaping retailer, has joined forces with WasteCare to launch the service for both vaping devices and e-cigarettes. 

Vapes contain lithium batteries and plastic which can cause harm to the local environment when littered and VPZ is "committed to tackling the problem head-on". 

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They have announced their ambitions to responsibly recycle all kinds of vaping devices during 2023. 

The service is now live and is open to all vapers with anyone able to visit a store and dispose safely of their vaping devices or e-cigarettes. 

All recycling processes will be handled by WasteCare which will be responsible for safely collecting, treating, and recovering disposable vapes and reusable hardware devices from within its plant in Elland, West Yorkshire.

Glasgow Times: Doug Mutter, VPZ Director Doug Mutter, VPZ Director (Image: VPZ)

Doug Mutter, director of VPZ, says he believes the innovative recycling service will help clean up local environments while also educating vapers on being responsible and using more sustainable vaping products. 

He said: "We are excited to be launching this ground-breaking service with WasteCare to respond to an emerging environmental issue.

"Any form of littering is unacceptable however the proliferation of disposable vape use has led to single-use devices being discarded in local environments.

"Our partnership with WasteCare responds to this challenge head on and vapers can come into our network of over 150 stores throughout the country, including Glasgow, to recycle their vape devices, both disposable and reusable, in a safe and responsible way.

"Our service will also help us engage with adult smokers and vapers to educate them on the sustainable and environmental benefits of using reusable products."

VPZ is also currently calling on both the UK and Scottish governments to introduce tighter controls and licensing for selling vaping products. 

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The new recycling scheme comes as Glasgow City Council is calling for a ban on disposable vapes. 

We previously reported Glasgow's Environment and Liveable Neighbourhoods Committee wrote to the Scottish Government to back calls for the introduction of new legislation banning their sale due to concerns about the future health of the city's young people and the rising environmental impact of littering.