Have you ever thought about what happens to cannabis vape cartridges when they are empty? A cannabis vape cartridge is a small container filled with cannabis oil that can be attached to a vaporizer pen for discreet and on-the-go consumption. These vape cartridges are popular among cannabis enthusiasts for their convenience and ease of use. But they can contribute to waste if not disposed of properly. So let's minimise the environmental impact and learn the steps to recycle vape cartridges responsibly.

Can a cannabis cartridge be recycled?

Yes, a cannabis cartridge can be recycled!

Instead of throwing away vapes and their cartridges, there are ways to dispose of them properly through vape cartridge recycling. Of course, not all recycling facilities accept vape cartridges, but some programs specialise in recycling vape products.

So before you throw away your used cannabis cartridge, look for local recycling programmes or companies that accept them. By recycling your vape, you can help reduce waste and ensure it's disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

Understanding vape cartridge components

Before we analyse the feasibility of recycling, let's break down what goes into a vape cartridge. The main components typically include

• A small plastic or metal housing to hold the internal materials
• A cotton wick that absorbs the e-liquid and delivers it to the heating element
• A coil or atomiser made from an alloy metal that heats and vaporises the e-liquid
• Electrical contacts to connect the heater to the battery
• Remnants of used e-liquid containing nicotine, flavourings and other chemicals

This mix of plastic, metal, electronics and liquid residue is a challenge for recycling facilities. The tiny size of the cartridges also makes them difficult to sort and process efficiently.

How to Go About It Yourself

If you’re feeling crafty, try vape cartridge recycling at home. Here’s how:

Separate the Cartridge From the Battery

Before vape cartridge recycling, be sure to separate it from the battery. Doing this will prevent potential battery hazards and ensure the materials are disposed of properly.

Clean the Cartridge

To get rid of any gunk that might have built up inside your cannabis vape cartridge, use a cotton swab or paper towel to clean it out. Make sure to give all the parts a good cleaning so there’s no residue left behind.

Collect the Recyclable Materials

The metal components of the cartridge, such as the chamber and the mouthpiece, can be recycled. Separate them from any plastic or glass components.

Glass can be recycled with other glass products. Be sure to remove any rubber or plastic components before recycling. But if the glass is broken, dispose of it in a puncture-proof container or wrap it in newspaper before putting it in the garbage bin.

Plastic can be disposed of with regular trash, as they’re not typically accepted in recycling programs. However, some programs may accept plastic cartridges made from specific materials, so it’s always best to check with the program first.

Find a Recycling Center

Check with your local recycling center to determine if they accept vape cartridges. If they do, you can bring the metal components to the center for recycling.

Dispose of the Non-recyclable Components

You can dispose of whatever is left and cannot be recycled.

How to Safely Dispose of Cannabis Vape Cartridges

You should avoid simply throwing vape cartridges in the trash. Many of these vape cartridges contain materials that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. So, let’s find safer ways to dispose of your cannabis cartridges.

Check Local Laws

Before disposing of cannabis cartridges, you must check your local laws regarding the disposal of these items. Some states may have specific regulations on disposing of cannabis vape products.

Remove the Battery

Most cannabis cartridges come with a battery attached. So, you should remove it before disposing of the cartridge. Do this by unscrewing the vape cartridge from the battery or pressing a button to release it.

Empty the Vape Cartridge

Simply hold the cartridge upside down and tap the mouthpiece gently to release any remaining liquid into a container that can be disposed of properly.

Disassemble and Clean the Vape Cartridge

Unscrew the mouthpiece, the chamber, and any other detachable components. Clean all the parts thoroughly.

Place in a Sealable Bag

Once the cartridge is cleaned and disassembled, place it in a sealable bag. Doing this will prevent any potential leaks or spills during transportation.

Dispose of Properly

Cannabis vape cartridges should be disposed of safely and responsibly. Check with your local waste management facility or vape cartridge recycling center to determine the best way to dispose of them. Some facilities may offer a hazardous waste disposal service suitable for cannabis products.