Looking For More Sustainable Alternatives to Disposable Vapes? Here Are 3 To Consider

With the UK government ban on disposable vapes starting from 1st June 2025, many adult nicotine users are seeking alternatives that may generate less waste compared to disposable vapes. This shift is driven in part by environmental concerns, as over 5 million single-use vapes are discarded weekly in the UK, contributing to electronic waste and potential fire hazards in waste facilities. 

If you are looking for some new options to replace your disposable vape, here are our top three recommendations from our in-house vape expert Beth. In this guide, she will discuss the pros and cons of alternatives to disposable vapes that generate less waste, highlight her favourite products, and explain how these options may support longer-term use compared to single-use vapes. 

Refillable vape kits allow users to fill their devices with e-liquids of their choice, reducing waste associated with disposable products (as it removes the battery waste, which is a big part of the issue with disposable vapes).  

Pros: 

• Customizable flavour and nicotine strength
• Reusable devices may help  reduce electronic waste
• Cost-effective over time 

Cons: 

• Requires maintenance, such as coil replacements
• Initial setup may be more complex than just a disposable vape if you are new to the product and depending on which kit you pick.  

Beth’s Top Vape Kit Pick: Vaporesso XROS 3 Mini Pod Kit 

"My recent go to refillable vape kit has been the Vaporesso XROS 3. It offers a sleek design with adjustable airflow, providing a tailored vaping experience. Its rechargeable battery and refillable pods make it a longer-lasting and reusable option for regular users. I also love that I can pair this vape kit with any e-liquid of my choice, which allows me to switch up the flavours whenever I feel like it.” 

Prefilled vape pods and kits combine the convenience of disposables with the reusability of rechargeable devices. As you can recharge the battery, it removes the battery waste and means you only change out the pod each time you run out of vape juice – not the entire vape device.  

Pros: 

• Easy to use with no need for manual refilling
• Rechargeable vape device
• Consistent flavour delivery 

Cons:

• Limited to available pod flavours
• Pods need to be replaced on a regular basis 

Beth’s Top Pick: Vuse Go Reload Pen 1000 Pod Kit 

"The Vuse Go Reload Pen Pod Kit user-friendly and offers a range of flavours. Its magnetic charging and compact design make it a convenient option which may generate less electronic waste over time compared to single use vapes. My current favourite flavour has been the blueberry ice, which pairs well with the ceramic coil for flavour right up to the final puffs.” 

Nicotine pouches provide a smoke-free and vapour-free alternative, eliminating the need for electronic devices altogether. There is very little plastic waste (only the can is typically made of plastic) and no battery waste associated with nicotine pouches.  

Pros: 

• Discreet and easy to use
• No electronic waste
• Available in various flavours and strengths

Cons: 

• Different experience compared to vaping
• May take time to adjust for new users 

Beth’s Favourite Product: LOOP Hot Rhubarb Strong 

"Nicotine pouches offer a simple way to enjoy nicotine without the need for devices or batteries. They're especially convenient for on-the-go use, as you can pop them in place wherever you are. I have always loved LOOP Hot Rhubarb, as there is a touch of sweetness on the nose, followed by a clear note of rhubarb and a gentle hint of chilli —  a chilli flavour that resembles jalapeño. The pouches are slim and semi-dry, providing a semi-dry texture designed for discreet and comfortable use. They sit nicely under the lip and release flavour consistently throughout the time they are parked.” 

Regardless of the nicotine products you choose, being environmentally mindful goes beyond the product itself. Every stage of use — from packaging to disposal — offers an opportunity to reduce the amount of electronic and plastic waste generated. Here are some of the key things to consider:  

• Proper Disposal: One of the most crucial aspects is how you dispose of your vape components and accessories. Disposable vapes, batteries, pods, and even nicotine pouches contain materials that can harm the environment if thrown into general waste. Instead, look for designated electronic waste (e-waste) recycling points, often found at local recycling centres or within larger electronics retailers. Many of these facilities are equipped to safely dismantle and recycle lithium-ion batteries and electronic components. If your device has a removable battery, take care to separate and dispose of it through a proper battery recycling scheme. 
• Packaging and Waste: Always be conscious of the packaging your products come in. Favour brands that use recyclable or compostable materials and avoid excessive plastic where possible. Refillable vape devices, for example, significantly reduce single-use waste and are often built to last much longer than disposable versions. Paired with e-liquid in glass or recyclable plastic bottles, this choice can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.
• Mindful Use: Sustainability also means using products thoughtfully. Avoid stockpiling devices or replacing them unnecessarily. If you're switching from disposables to a reusable device, do some research to find one with replaceable parts, such as coils or tanks, which extend the life of the device and minimise waste.  

Ultimately, every small action counts. Choosing alternatives that may generate less waste, disposing of products correctly, and supporting brands with responsible practices are all simple steps towards reducing overall waste generation.