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Awareness about e-cigarettes and their impact on physical and mental health is increasing, however, many people do not know about the environmental harm of e-cigarettes and how to properly dispose of e-cigarettes, also colloquially known as vapes. According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Foundation estimate, the number of disposable vapes sold in the U.S. per year would stretch for 7,000 miles — that’s traveling the distance between the Lincoln Airport and the Eppley Airfield in Omaha over 110 times.
Here are seven things you should know about e-cigarette waste.
1. E-cigarette waste is dangerous. This is because of two main parts: the lithium battery and nicotine juice.
Lithium batteries can catch fire if they get hot or become damaged or defective. Disposable e-cigarettes contain rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
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Nicotine juice can be very toxic even in small quantities. It can be absorbed through the skin, and just one teaspoon can be deadly to a 26-pound child.
The American Association of Poison Control Centers and other health experts recommend wearing gloves or using other protective materials when handling e-cigarettes.
2. Vape waste should be managed as household hazardous waste.
Lincoln and Lancaster County residents can take consumer vape waste to HazToGo, Lincoln’s Hazardous Waste Center located at 5101 N. 48th St., Lincoln. For center hours, visit or call 402-441-8021.
3. E-cigarette waste does not belong in regular trash or recycling bins.
It can cause fires and contaminate other recycling materials. Always dispose of e-cigarette waste properly.
4. Do not attempt to take the battery apart.
Attempting to take apart an e-cigarette's battery can expose you to the toxic nicotine juice and the lithium battery, which can discharge and cause a fire.
5. In case of nicotine exposure, look out for signs of nicotine poisoning.
Signs include nausea, vomiting, increased salivation, abdominal pain and sweating. If you suspect nicotine poisoning, please call the Nebraska Poison Control Center at 800.222.1222 or dial 911.
6. E-cigarette battery fires can happen.
Use a foam extinguisher that has CO2, powder graphite, ABC dry chemical or sodium carbonate. If it’s safe, move the burning device outside and away from anything flammable. If the fire is too big, call 911 immediately.
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If you are looking for support and resources to quit vaping or using other tobacco products, you can call the Nebraska Tobacco Quitline: 800.QUIT.NOW (800.784.8669). You can also visit for more information.
As people learn more about how e-cigarettes affect their health, it is important to also think about the impact of waste on the environment. By following these tips on proper vape waste disposal, people can keep themselves and their surroundings clean, safe and healthy.Â