Reading and Leeds Festivals Clamp Down on Disposable Vapes in Environmental Move

Reading and Leeds Festivals, scheduled from August 25 to 27, have declared a ban on disposable vapes on-site this year, as part of their efforts to mitigate environmental impact. These single-use vaping devices are now added to the list of prohibited items at the festivals, joining campfires and disposable BBQs. The festivals’ website cited concerns about the harmful effects of improper disposal of disposable vapes and their contribution to environmental pollution, particularly given that incorrect disposal can be hazardous at waste disposal centers.

Refillable vapes, however, remain permissible. This measure aligns with the festivals’ commitment to the Air Quality Action Plan and their Green Nation Charter. The festivals emphasized the need to protect the environment and future generations, noting that attendees found creating or fueling fires or using disposable BBQs will be removed from the festival site.

Similar to Glastonbury Festival’s initiative, Reading and Leeds’ ban on disposable vapes is in line with the ethos of “reduce, reuse, recycle.” Glastonbury had explicitly communicated to its attendees, “Do not bring disposable vapes,” due to their environmental and waste hazards.

The move comes as experts report a significant increase in fires at recycling plants attributed to the improper disposal of vaping devices. In the UK, an estimated 1.3 million disposable vapes are discarded weekly, contributing to environmental concerns.

With headline acts like Billie Eilish, The Killers, and Sam Fender, Reading and Leeds Festivals are not only focusing on offering entertainment but also setting an example for environmentally conscious event management.