Introduction

In a striking demonstration of the e-waste epidemic, Chris Doel has ingeniously crafted a 'dodgy e-bike' using 130 discarded disposable vape batteries, shedding light on the staggering amount of waste generated from these trendy devices. Each year, the UK alone sees approximately 260 million vape batteries tossed aside, contributing to an escalating environmental disaster that future generations will inevitably have to confront.

The Project

Doel's project emerged from a simple yet powerful message: we need to rethink our relationship with waste. He scavenged the larger 3,500 puff disposable vapes, which were strewn across a music festival site, and transformed them into a functional e-bike battery capable of producing 48 volts and 1,500 watts. Remarkably, this DIY battery powered the e-bike for over 20 miles with minimal pedaling. It's all documented in a captivating YouTube video where Doel zips along trails, reaching speeds of 32 miles per hour.

Safety Warning

However, this project comes with a stern warning: Do not attempt this at home. The process of extracting lithium-ion batteries from disposable vapes is fraught with dangers. Doel emphasizes the necessity of safety precautions throughout his build, showcasing a fire extinguisher prominently on his workspace. Viewers quickly learn that even momentary contact between the wrong battery types can lead to hazardous smoking and sparks.

Urgency for Regulation

The question remains: why are so many vape batteries discarded? With a UK ban on disposable vapes set to take effect in June 2025, and the FDA tightening regulations around such products in the U.S., it appears that a reckoning is on the horizon. Disposable vapes became particularly popular among younger users, adding urgency to the need for regulation. The FDA's efforts have resulted in thousands of new vape brands flooding the market, complicating the fight against these single-use products.

E-Waste Impact

Recent reports revealed a staggering sale of 11.9 million disposable vapes in the U.S. alone by March 2023, with the bulk of these hazardous devices being manufactured in China. As liquid nicotine is designated as hazardous waste by the EPA, recycling options are limited, leaving huge quantities of lithium-ion batteries trapped in landfills. The U.S. Public Interest Research Group estimates that the total lithium wasted in these devices adds up to around 23.6 tons each year—sufficient to power approximately 2,600 electric vehicles.

Conclusion

Chris Doel's audacious project not only sparks a conversation about e-waste but also highlights the potential reuse of materials that are frequently discarded without a second thought. His 'dodgy bike' serves as a creative yet cautionary reminder that we must innovate ways to repurpose our waste before it's too late. The environmental impact of our disposable culture is evident, and it’s time to take the lessons from projects like Doel's seriously if we hope to mitigate the e-waste crisis that looms ahead.