Amazon, eBay, and other online platforms will now share the costs of e-waste recycling in the UK. New government rules aim to create a “level playing field” for electronics producers, says Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh.
Previously, foreign sellers avoided recycling fees by selling through online platforms. This left UK firms like Currys to cover these costs. The new rules ensure overseas sellers using platforms like Amazon and eBay also contribute to e-waste recycling expenses.
Higher Recycling Fees for E-Cigarette Producers
From January 2026, e-cigarette producers will face increased recycling fees. This change targets vape waste, with the UN reporting 844 million vapes discarded annually.
Vapes will no longer be grouped with toys or sports equipment for recycling purposes. Instead, they will have a dedicated e-waste category. UK non-profit Material Focus estimates five million vapes are discarded or littered weekly in the UK.
Online marketplaces must register with the Environment Agency and report UK sales from overseas sellers. This information will calculate each platform’s financial contribution to recycling costs. The Environment Agency, along with regulators in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, will enforce these rules.
Amazon says it is committed to reducing waste and offers free recycling services, including home pick-up. eBay, Temu, and Euronics have not commented on the changes.
Currys CEO Alex Baldock welcomed the move, highlighting the environmental damage caused by short-life, low-quality tech filling landfills. He praised the government’s effort to hold online marketplaces accountable for waste management.
The government says these measures will support recycling services and promote a circular economy. By encouraging reuse, repair, and recycling, the plan aims to create a more sustainable system for managing electronic waste.