Vaping brand Riot Labs launches ‘world first carbon negative disposable’

E-liquid producer Riot Labs has made its first move into the disposable category with what it has claimed is the “first carbon negative disposable device in the world”.

Disposable e-cigarettes are small electronic devices that take refillable ‘pods’ containing vape juice. Typically, the devices aren’t recycled due to their mixed material design, and battery, which can’t be easily removed.

Riot Labs’ QBAR device is made from three main elements, each of which are completely recyclable, the company says. The brand is launching an initiative to make it simple for stores and customers to recycle their devices, to prevent them going to landfill. Consumers can drop their QBARs off at branded Riot Recycling Bins in specialist stores, which are collected by carbon offset or electric vehicles and sent off for dismantling and recycling.

The company is seeking to be a zero waste one, and says it plans to work with vape stores to track how much waste each has saved so “they can continue to optimise and find ways to reduce even further”.

The outer casing of the device is made from PLA plastic corn starch, which is decomposable, but can be recycled into clothing, vinyl records and material for 3D printing. Recycled batteries will be reused in future devices and other electronic devices, while mouthpieces will be incinerated, with power going into the National Grid.

“Everywhere you look, companies are making efforts to be greener, but that isn’t happening fast enough in the vape sector,” said Ben Johnson, who founded Riot Labs in 2016. “We’re proud to lead the way with the first carbon negative disposable device – with its unique benefits we believe it will make a big impact on people’s smoking cessation journeys.” 

The QBAR will be available in stores UK-wide from this week, and comes with a range of 10 pod flavours: Cherry Fizzle, Triple Mint, Sweet Strawberry, Blue Burst, Watermelon Ice, Menthol Ice, Strawberry & Blueberry Ice, Mango, Peach & Pineapple, Grape Ice and Classic Tobacco. It comes in three nicotine strengths: 2%, 1% and 0%.

“From day one, it’s been our mission to help people quit smoking for good, through creating products that are better for people, and better for the planet,” Johnson added.