Single use vapes: why it's time to ditch them for good Environment Vaping: The Latest Environmental Problem Alabama Cooperative Extension System With more vapes getting thrown away every year, it's become a growing environmental problem. Vapes contain heavy metals, nicotine, and other chemicals, which leach toxic pollutants into the soil and waterways when Vapes harm more than your body. Disposable vape devices and refillable vape pods hurt the environment, too. Throwing away vapes creates a waste stream of plastic, nicotine salts, heavy metals, mercury, and Disposable Vapes: Dangerous, Damaging, and just Dumb How Vaping Affects the Environment: Reduce Your Impact