Disposable vs Reusable Vapes: Which Is More Environmentally Friendly?

Every puff you take leaves a mark on the planet. As vaping has grown in popularity, so has the waste it creates. But not all vapes are equal when it comes to environmental impact. The choice between a disposable device and a reusable system can mean the difference between contributing to landfill or embracing a more sustainable approach. This guide breaks down the full environmental cost of each option—from manufacturing to disposal—helping you make an informed choice.

Disposable vapes are designed for convenience, but their environmental cost is hidden across their short lifecycle.

Each disposable vape is manufactured, packaged, shipped across oceans, sold, used briefly, then discarded. With millions sold annually in Australia, the waste adds up quickly. Most end up in landfill where batteries leak toxic chemicals, plastics persist for centuries, and fire risks threaten waste facilities.

Reusable systems like RELX take a fundamentally different approach: one durable device paired with replaceable pods.

Let's compare what a daily vaper discards in one year with each option:

Lithium-ion batteries are among the most environmentally costly components of any vape. They require mining of lithium, cobalt, and nickel—resources with significant environmental and ethical concerns.

Beyond raw waste numbers, reusable systems offer several environmental benefits:

If you already use a reusable system, here's how to minimise your impact further:

• Choose durable brands – RELX Infinity series is designed for longevity
• Proper maintenance – regular cleaning extends device life (see our cleaning guide)
• Don't overstock pods – buy what you'll use within 2-3 months to avoid waste from oxidation
• Recycle at end-of-life – take your device to an e-waste facility, recycle batteries via B-Cycle
• Consider pod recycling programs – some councils accept pods; check local guidelines
• Spread the word – encourage friends who use disposables to consider switching

If you only vape occasionally—once a month or less—the environmental difference may be smaller. A disposable might make sense if you'd rarely use a reusable device. But for anyone who vapes weekly or daily, the math is clear: reusable is greener.

The environmental evidence is clear: if you vape regularly, a reusable device like RELX has a significantly lower impact than disposable alternatives. While reusable systems have a higher initial footprint, that cost is quickly offset as you use the device for months or years instead of discarding it after days.

Every disposable vape you don't buy is one less battery in landfill, one less plastic shell polluting the environment, and one less shipment contributing to carbon emissions. Switching to reusable isn't just better for your wallet—it's better for the planet.