Cannabis legalization has resulted in more and more people using THC vape pens. Cannabis can often be consumed more discreetly and conveniently through vaping compared to smoking. Plastic and metal cartridges and batteries discarded with vape pens have also increased waste.
Choose refillable and rechargeable vape pens
Choose refillable and rechargeable vape pens over disposable, single-use pens when you want to make the biggest impact. Disposable vape pens contain batteries and cartridges that are tossed after one use, creating unnecessary plastic and electronic waste. Refillable vape pens allow you to swap out empty cartridges for new ones while reusing the battery indefinitely. It cuts back significantly on waste. When shopping for a vape pen, look for options made of durable metals like stainless steel that withstand regular handling and repeated charging cycles. High-quality rechargeable batteries made by reputable manufacturers will last for years rather than months.
Purchase carts and pods made of recyclable materials
When selecting cartridges or pods, try to choose those made using recyclable materials like glass, aluminum, and polyethylene terephthalate plastic rather than single-use plastics. Glass and aluminum are easily recyclable through most municipal recycling programs. PET plastic is also recyclable and often accepted in plastic bag recycling bins found in many grocery stores. Avoid cartridges containing acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastic because it cannot be recycled with regular municipal waste. If possible, try to find cartridge manufacturers using recycled materials in their products for further environmental protection.
Support brands with cartridge buyback or recycling programs
Some vape brands such as Pax have implemented cartridge buyback or recycling programs to cut back on plastic waste. Customers return used cartridges to partner dispensaries to be recycled or refurbished. The collected materials are then reused to manufacture new cartridges. Supporting brands that are making efforts to tackle cartridge waste is a great way to reduce the environmental footprint of your vape pen use. Before buying, do some research to see if cartridge recycling options are available for a particular brand in your area.
Buy from companies using sustainable manufacturing practices
Investigate how and where a thc vape pen brand manufactures its products. Many mainstream vape manufacturers have faced criticism over their use of polluting factories in China and other countries with weak environmental regulations. Seek out brands that disclose their manufacturing processes and facilities, showing commitment to responsible sourcing, clean production methods, and ethical working conditions. Supporting green and sustainable cannabis vape companies ensures your dollars aren’t supporting polluting supply chains.
Choose local and organic over mass-produced
Local and small-batch cannabis vape products are a great eco-friendly option compared to mass-produced cartridges. Local companies have a smaller carbon footprint by eliminating extensive transport miles for distribution. These businesses also utilize higher quality, locally sourced ingredients free of pesticides and fillers. When ingredients like cannabis terpenes or flavorings come from US organic producers rather than overseas mass suppliers, it also benefits the environment through chemical-free agriculture. Shopping at local dispensaries and reading labels helps find these artisanal green products.
