Amazon, eBay, and other online platforms will now contribute to UK e-waste recycling costs under new government rules. These changes aim to create a “level playing field” for electronics producers, according to Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh.

Previously, foreign sellers avoided recycling fees by selling through online marketplaces. This left UK firms like Currys to cover the costs. The new rules ensure overseas sellers on Amazon and eBay contribute to e-waste recycling expenses.

New Recycling Fees for E-Cigarette Producers

Starting January 2026, e-cigarette producers will face higher recycling fees. This change targets vape waste, as the UN reports 844 million vapes are discarded each year.

Vapes will no longer be grouped with toys and 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 data will calculate each platform’s financial responsibility for recycling costs. The Environment Agency, along with regulators in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, will enforce these rules.

Amazon claims 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 harm caused by short-life, low-quality tech filling landfills. He praised the government’s efforts 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.