Hello,

My name is Jared Sheen, founder of Vape Waste Solutions, a federally and Wisconsin state-approved nonprofit organization dedicated to tackling one of the fastest-growing forms of e-waste: disposable vapes. With over 20 operational drop-off locations across the country, we're leading the charge in responsible vape recycling, education, and sustainability.

As a regular user of disposable vapes, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it is for many people to switch to reusable devices. Despite good intentions, disposables are intentionally engineered with smoother chemicals, stronger flavor profiles, and a more convenient experience that’s hard to replicate with box mods or refillable systems.

But the environmental cost is staggering.

Each disposable vape contains a rechargeable lithium-ion battery capable of powering devices for 3+ years or withstanding 300–500 charge cycles. Instead, we throw them away after just a couple of weeks. Today’s disposables are also becoming more advanced, some with touchscreens, haptic feedback, and even voice recognition—features that belong in long-term electronics, not temporary products destined for landfills.

Our Mission at Vape Waste Solutions

♻️ Prevent the improper disposal of vape devices and batteries

Clean up vape litter from streets, schools, parks, and public areas

Educate the public and businesses on responsible e-waste recycling

Repurpose the technology and materials for renewable energy storage and other uses

The Facts

Lithium Waste

In the UK, ~10 metric tons of lithium from vapes is thrown out annually—enough to power 10,000 e-bikes or thousands of electric vehicles.

In the U.S., with nearly 5x the population, over 49 metric tons of lithium from disposable vapes may be wasted every year.

That’s enough for 49,400 e-bikes or up to 12,844 electric cars.

Environmental Damage

Americans throw out approximately 4.5 disposable vapes every second—creating over 7,000 miles of vape waste per year.

These devices contain non-biodegradable plastics, hazardous chemicals, and toxic metals like nickel, cobalt, and lithium that contaminate land and water systems.

Recycling Gap

Less than 10% of e-waste in the Americas is properly recycled.

Disposable vapes, in particular, are often neglected despite being rich in reusable energy materials and valuable circuit components.

Our Vision

Vape Waste Solutions is creating the first vape-focused recycling and recovery network in the U.S. By offering community drop-offs, school collection programs, and awareness campaigns, we aim to:

Recover usable lithium and plastics for sustainable technologies

Build portable battery banks and renewable energy storage units

Prevent harmful chemicals from entering our water, air, and food systems

Inspire policy change and responsible design from vape manufacturers

Join Us

Whether you're a user, parent, educator, environmentalist, or just concerned about the growing e-waste crisis, you can be part of the solution. Help us clean up vape waste, protect ecosystems, and unlock the potential of this overlooked resource.

Visit vapewastesolutions.com to learn more, find a location near you, or support our mission.

Sources:

PIRG (U.S. Public Interest Research Group)

Truth Initiative

University of Oxford

EPA & WI Department of Natural Resources