Feb 22, 2023

If you’re using or planning to switch to smoke-free products, do not discard your device in a standard waste bin. And we already have good news: it is indeed possible to recycle the components of heated tobacco devices and vapes. But to do this, it is essential to be informed about the device’s components that can be recycled. 

 

 

Can my IQOS device be recycled? 

 

If you are an IQOS user, we offer initiatives that support the recycling of heated tobacco devices such as the IQOS Refreshed program. With IQOS Refreshed IQOS devices that were previously used for a maximum of 30 days can be returned to get checked, thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. With this program, used devices get a second life for a new user. You can return your device wherever you have purchased it. 

 

What if I owned an IQOS device for more than 30 days and want to recycle it? 

 

Philip Morris supports the disposal of waste electronic devices within Austria in modern disposal facilities and also joined a collection and recovery system. The separate collection and recycling of waste electronic devices is of crucial importance for human health and environmental protection as well as the recycling of precious resources. In the process of buying a new IQOS device marked with the crossed-out wheeled bin you may return your old device to a collection facility especially established for that purpose, free of any costs. A list of all Austrian collection centers including opening hours is available here.

 

 

Where can I recycle vapes? 

In case the respective vape consists of recyclable components you can bring it to a recycling center that focusses on recycling electrical devices. Here again you can check a list of all Austrian collection centers for the one that is closest to your location.

 

 

How do vapes get recycled? 

 

Recycling a vape is a process that is feasible but must be handled by an authorized recycler. Once your device has been cleaned, it is necessary to have a local authorized recycler separating each component and processing each part independently in accordance with manufacturer guidance. This includes ensuring all e-liquid and nicotine residue is removed, as the waste could be a problem.  

 

In most cases, instructions on how to separate components are provided by manufacturers for authorized recyclers only. While it is the responsibility of an authorized recycler to separate the components ahead of the recycling process - and not the user - we have broken the process down below, so that vapers can see how it works. 
 

 

 

How to Recycle Vape Cartridges 

All the cartridge materials – including the glass, metal, and plastic elements, must be separated, and independently recycled.

 

 

How to Recycle Vape Tanks 

A vape tank may be recycled, but this can vary from brand to brand. Make sure to check manufacturer’s guidance. As before, it depends on the materials that have been used. Rubber components should not be recycled; conventional metal tanks can be recycled but usually not through household recycling. 

 

 

How to Recycle E-Liquid Bottles 

In most cases, these can be recycled. However, it is advisable to check the manufacturer’s guidance first before taking to your local authorized recycling point.  

 

 

How to Recycle Vape Pods 

The pod materials, which include glass, metal, and plastic will need to be independently recycled. 

 

 

Vape Batteries 

Some manufacturers may offer recycling schemes for their batteries. In any case, you should not remove a battery yourself.  

 

 

Where can I purchase IQOS?  

 

Check out our products in the Online Shop or visit your nearest IQOS store to find an alternative to smoking that works for you. 

 

IQOS is not risk-free and provides nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether.  

 

Curious to understand more about the IQOS Refreshed Program and our vision of a resource-efficient future? Then make sure to check out this news article.  

 

 

This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.