How To Recycle Vapes & Tobacco Heating Devices

Feb 29, 2024

How To Recycle Vapes & Tobacco Heating Devices

With vapes and tobacco heating devices becoming more popular among adult users, you might be wondering whether these products can be recycled. Luckily, the answer is yes!

 

This article will give you a better understanding of how to handle vapes and tobacco heating devices when you’re ready to dispose of them.

 

How to Recycle Vapes?

 

Vapes are made up of recyclable components, but you should hand them over to an authorised recycler.

 

To recycle a vape, the device needs to be cleaned and all e-liquid and nicotine residue must be removed. This is because these substances can be hazardous if not disposed of properly. Once the device is cleaned, an authorised recycler will separate each component and process each part independently according to manufacturer guidance. 

 

While the authorised recycler is responsible for handling the separation, it's always helpful to know how it works. Here’s a breakdown of the process.

 

  1. Recycling Vape Batteries

     

    Some vape manufacturers offer recycling programs for their batteries. It's important not to remove the battery yourself. Instead, follow the manufacturer's guidance for proper disposal. If a recycling program is not available, take the battery to an authorised recycler for proper handling.

     

  2. Handling E-Liquid With Care

     

    Next, dispose of any e-liquid properly. Don’t pour it down the drain or throw it in the trash. Instead, check with your local hazardous waste disposal facility to see if they accept e-liquid. If not, contact the vape manufacturer or a vape recycling program for guidance on how to properly dispose of the e-liquid.

     

  3. Recycling Vape Cartridges

     

    To recycle your vape cartridges, the glass, metal, and plastic elements must be separated and recycled independently. This ensures each component can be properly processed and reused.

     

  4. Recycling Vape Tanks

     

    Recycling a vape tank depends on the brand and materials used. Check the manufacturer's guidance before attempting to recycle. In general, rubber components shouldn’t be recycled, and conventional metal tanks can usually only be recycled through authorised recyclers, and not household recycling programs.

     

  5. Recycling E-Liquid Bottles

     

    Most e-liquid bottles can be recycled, but it's a good idea to check the manufacturer's guidance first. Make sure to dispose of any leftover e-liquid properly before recycling the bottle.

     

  6. Recycling Vape Pods

     

    To recycle vape pods, the glass, metal, and plastic elements must be separated and recycled independently.

     

 

Where Can Vapes Be Recycled?

 

This depends on your local area and laws. You should always check the manufacturer’s guidance to make sure your device is recyclable.

 

How To Recycle Tobacco Heating Devices?

 

Just like vapes, tobacco heating devices can be recycled. IQOS tobacco heating devices can be recycled under the Device Take Back Programme. However, if you have a different brand of device, here’s what you can do:

 

  1. Contact the Manufacturer

     

    Get in touch with the manufacturer to ask if they offer a recycling program for their tobacco heating devices. They will be able to provide you with information on where to take your device or on how to ship it to them properly.

     

  2. Separate the Components

     

    If you can’t participate in a manufacturer recycling program, you can still recycle your device through an authorised recycler. Before bringing your device to them, separate the components of the device, such as the heating blade, holder, and battery. This will make it easier for the recycler to process each component properly.

     

  3. Remove Any Residue

     

    Make sure to remove any leftover tobacco or other materials from the device before recycling. This will ensure the waste doesn't contaminate the recycling process or pose a hazard to those handling the device.

     

  4. Check Local Regulations

     

    Check with your local recycling facility to see if they accept tobacco heating devices. Some facilities may require you to drop off the device at a specific location or to follow certain guidelines for recycling.

     

 

Doing Your Part

 

By recycling your vapes and tobacco heating devices, you’ll be doing your part to reduce waste and protect the environment. Although it may require some extra effort to properly recycle vapes and tobacco heating devices, a little can go a long way in minimising the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

 

 

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(Disclaimer: This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.)