How Much Do Disposable Vapes Cost the Environment?

In July 2024, after California passed a law concerning the disposal language on vape labels, millions of cannabis consumers were shocked to realize that the “disposable” vapes they’ve been using for years can’t simply be thrown in the trash and are harming the environment.

Though disposable cannabis vapes are often advertised as cheap, convenient options, that couldn’t be further from the truth. As a vape company dedicated to making a positive change in the world, we want to explore the true cost of disposable vapes. 

How Much Does One Disposable Vape Cost?

The price of a disposable vape varies widely, depending on the market and the specific product. They’re often advertised as a cheap option for cannabis extracts, but as you’ll learn, that’s untrue on several counts. 

 

Are Disposable Vapes More Cost Efficient?

Certainly not. Every time you buy a disposable vape, you pay for the extract, the tank, the battery, and the casing. 

If you want to skip the upcharge, opt for a reusable vape instead. Though it might be a bit more expensive right off the bat (though not by much), a reusable vape is worth it since it will save you money and lessen your environmental impact over time.  

 

Are Disposables Eco-Friendly?

Not at all. In fact, disposable vapes are probably the least eco-friendly way to consume cannabis. 

 

Are Disposable Vapes Bad for the Environment?

Yes. Disposable vapes have a direct negative impact on the environment. 

Disposable vapes are made from single-use plastic, which eventually breaks down into harmful microplastics and dangerous chemicals. 

Additionally, because they’re usually called “disposable vapes,” most people assume that they can just throw them away when they’re empty. In truth, disposable vapes are made with lithium-ion batteries that must be disposed of carefully. Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode when exposed to extreme temperatures, punctured, crushed, or wet — all conditions common in waste management facilities. Fires in waste management facilities and landfills are obviously detrimental to workers and the environment alike. 

 

What is the Most Eco-Friendly Disposable Vape?

Unfortunately, there is no such thing as an eco-friendly disposable vape. Disposable vapes are made to be used for a short time and then thrown away, which is the opposite of sustainable. 

To become a more eco-friendly cannabis consumer, consider investing in a reusable vape from a high-quality, reputable company like Dip Devices. 

How Do You Dispose of Disposable Vapes?

Disposable vapes are incredibly difficult to dispose of safely and responsibly. They are typically one solid piece, so separating the battery from the casing to recycle them is arduous and time-consuming. 

There are some recycling programs, both locally and nationally, but few are convenient enough for consumers to drop off their used vapes regularly. That said, if you have a stockpile of empty disposable vapes you haven’t been sure what to do with, you can look into hazardous waste disposal services in your area. 

Additionally, there are some guides online for separating the battery from the casing yourself so you can dispose of them responsibly. While we applaud the idea, messing with lithium-ion batteries can be extremely dangerous (remember what we said about fires and explosions?), so we don’t recommend trying it yourself.

Why You Shouldn’t Use Disposable Vapes

There are many reasons to opt for a reusable vape over a disposable one. Here are the top five. 

Disposable vapes are bad for the environment. They are wasteful, leach dangerous substances into the environment, and can cause large fires and explosions. 

Disposable vapes are expensive. In the long run, disposable vapes will cost you — and the environment — far more than reusable vapes will. 

Disposable vapes use low-quality hardware. Because they’re only meant to be used for a short time and manufacturers are trying to mass-produce them as cheaply as possible, most disposable vapes use low-quality hardware — not something you want in a product you’re vaping. 

Disposable vapes limit your concentrate selection. Disposables come prefilled, which means you can’t switch between different types of concentrates or use them to vape your all-time favorite wax or diamonds on the go.

Disposable vapes don’t allow for custom consumption. With disposable vapes, you’re limited to a single temperature setting that’s often imprecise and unreliable. With reusable vapes, you can access a wide range of precise temperature settings to access the exact experience you seek. 

Alternatives to Disposable Vapes

The best alternatives to disposable vapes are reusable vapes. 

Dip Devices carries a wide range of reusable cannabis vapes that are just as portable, convenient, and discreet as disposable vapes. For a solid all-around reusable vape, try the newly upgraded Lunar. If you want something compatible with myriad cannabis products, try the EVRI.

Where to Buy Reusable Vapes

Dip Devices is your best source for high-quality reusable vapes, e-rigs, and dab pens. We’re here to help, so feel free to message us if you need help deciding which vape is best for you.