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, editor Chris Hambrick and senior editor Chris Egusa who also composed our theme song and credits music. Additional music from APM. Audio engineering by Brendan Willard. Audience engagement support from Maha Sanad. Jen Chien is our Director of Podcasts. Katie Sprenger is our Director of Content Operations. Ethan Toven-Lindsey is our Editor in Chief.
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