Take-back of e-cigarettes in Germany
Key changes and our straightforward solution
From 2026 onwards, the sale of e-cigarettes is subject to a new set of legal requirements included in the amended German Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG). Retailers of all sizes are now required to take back e-cigarettes and ensure their professional disposal.
Interzero offers an integrated solution comprising take-back, logistics, recycling and advice on compliance, to help companies meet these requirements simply, reliably and in full compliance with the law.
New legal requirements – what’s new and who’s affected?
An e-cigarette take-back duty comes into force in Germany on 1 July 2026. This law has no exemptions and thus applies more rigorous regulations to e-cigarettes than to many other electrical devices.
Key new rules:
- Minimum sales area rule abolished
- ‘Kiosk’ exemption no longer applies
- No link to sale of new product
The duty therefore applies to all businesses selling e-cigarettes or heated tobacco products.
These include:
- Vape shops
- Kiosks and tobacco dealers
- Petrol and service stations
- Retail chains
- Online shops and marketplaces
What specific requirements now apply to dealers?
New duties:
- Free take-back of used e-cigarettes
- Take-back is not linked to purchase of new device
- Clearly visible signage for take-back points
- Information for customers about correct disposal
- Fire-safe collection and storage
- Handover to approved take-back and recycling systems
Products affected:
- Single-use e-cigarettes
- Reusable devices and pod systems
- Heated tobacco products
Interzero – Your specialised partner for e-cigarette recycling in Germany
Interzero is a leading environmental services provider for the circular economy, take-back systems and legal duties (EPR) in Germany and the EU. We work with manufacturers, dealers and online shops who are subject to the applicable legal requirements, and offer an integrated solution that covers all of the duties relating to e-cigarettes.
This includes:
- Planning and rollout of legally required take-back solutions
- Organisation of collection, pickup and transportation
- Fire-safe processes for devices containing lithium
- Certified disposal and high-quality recycling
- Advice on customer information and record-keeping duties
- Individual support provided by experienced compliance experts
Your benefits at a glance
One-stop solution
We cover take-back, logistics, recycling and compliance
Experience and legal peace of mind
Experts for the ElektroG and Battery Act (BattG)
Scalability
Solutions for independent stores, chains and online shops
Designed for sustainability
A circular approach instead of silo solutions
How the e-cigarette disposal cycle works:
Interzero offers you a safe and reliable, all-in-one solution. To start the take-back process for used e-cigarettes, simply set up our flame-retardant collection boxes on your business premises. When the box is full, we will organise return transportation and disposal. We also provide you with annual records of mass flows and proof of disposal
The new legislation extends take-back duties to all sellers of e-cigarettes, without exception. Act now to get your take-back system set up and avoid legal problems!
Our solution is ideal for:
- Dealers who need legal peace of mind
- Businesses wanting to minimise fire hazards and liability risks
- Brands who require visible action on sustainability
- Organisations looking to free up internal resources
Download our handy PDF factsheet to find out more about basic pricing for our collection boxes (our all-inclusive fees also include pickup).
Sales Manager
Customer FAQ:
- When does the law change on take-back?
Extended take-back duties for e-cigarettes enter into force on 1 July 2026. Preparations therefore need to be made as soon as possible.
- Does the law also apply to very small shops (kiosks)?
Yes. From July 2026, the law applies to any sales point, regardless of size.
- Does a customer have to buy a new device before they can return an old one?
No. Take-back must be free and not linked to a new sale.
- Do the rules also apply to e-commerce?
Yes. Online shops must establish suitable take-back options and provide related customer advice.
- Why should I work with Interzero?
Interzero’s sustainable solutions lighten your operational load, and offer legal peace of mind with reliable processes and a single point of contact.
