About this episode
A legal loophole has led to a surge in single-use vapes packed with a surprising amount of electronic components. It’s also a glimpse into how our disposable tech habits are fueling a growing e-waste problem. In this episode, tech reporter Samatha Cole shares what happened when she tried to “vape the internet” after seeing a viral post about a disposable touchscreen vape with built-in social media. We also hear from environmental philosopher and public health researcher Yogi Hale Hendlin, who explains how flavored vape bans have led to the flood of high-tech disposables — and how tackling the e-waste crisis will take a radical rethink of our relationship with the products we consume.
This episode first aired on April 16th, 2025
Guests:
Samantha Cole, reporter and co-founder of 404 Media
Yogi Hale Hendlin, environmental philosopher and assistant professor at Erasmus University
Further Reading:
I Tried to Vape the Internet – Samantha Cole, 404 Media
Communities can't recycle or trash disposable e-cigarettes. So what happens to them? – Matthew Perrone, Associated Press
How ‘Sour Raspberry Gummy Bear’ — and Other Chinese Vapes — Made Fools of American Lawmakers – Marc Novicoff, Politico
The right to repair electronics is now law in 3 states. Is Big Tech complying? – Maddie Stone, Grist
Disposable vapes thrown away quadruples to 5 M per week – Material Focus
Read the transcript here
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Credits: Close All Tabs is hosted by Morgan Sung. Our team includes producer Maya Cueva, e
