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September 2025 - Health

The majority of UK vapers have switched to reusable devices since the single-use ban, according to new research: A recent study has revealed that since the wholesale ban on single-use vapes, over eight out of 10 (85%) habitual vapers have switched to reusable devices, and 84% are purchasing refills. 

The research from ELFBAR, a leading smoking cessation brand in the UK, was based on survey responses from 6,000 UK vapers and smokers in July 2025 and aimed to examine the effects of the vaping ban on user habits and attitudes related to vaping. It was noted that of the 1.5 million adult vapers in the UK using Elfbar or LOST MARY reusable vapes at least once a week, the majority (84%) had acquired refills, reflecting the successful adoption of reusable devices. Conversely, a small minority (8%) persist in treating reusable devices as single-use vapes, opting to purchase a new kit each time.

Significantly, the study highlighted that a substantial number of smokers report that the use of reusable vapes has led to a reduction in tobacco consumption or contributed to quitting smoking. Specifically, over two-fifths (44%) indicated that these devices had "helped a lot," while one-fifth (21%) stated they had "helped a little." However, since the implementation of the ban on single-use devices, approximately one-quarter (26%) of respondents who previously used them admitted to an increase in tobacco usage or a return to smoking.

A primary motivation for introducing reusable vapes is to reduce their environmental impact. The study showed that over three-quarters (77%) of reusable vape users know they should dispose of them responsibly. Encouragingly, more than one-third of users return used devices to designated recycling points, and one-fifth (23%) recycle them at locations that accept used vapes. However, nearly one-fifth (18%) of users admit to putting used kits in household waste, while the same proportion discards them in public bins.  Despite the existence of over 10,000 vape recycling points in the UK, more than half (52%) of respondents want additional recycling points in more accessible locations, while nearly half (49%) would support the introduction of in-store recycling bins in all retail outlets.  

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