Monroe County, New York, will become the first county in New York State to accept e-cigarettes and the e-liquids used in them for safe disposal.

Experts say these items should not be thrown in the general trash because the lithium in these devices could pose serious health and environmental risks, according to a county press release.

"E-cigarettes are not only a public health issue, they're an environmental issue," said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. "E-cigarette pens, e-cigarettes and e-liquids are considered hazardous waste and should not be thrown away. Monroe County is proud to lead the way in New York and act now to prevent these products from harming our environment."

Instead, the county will receive them in resealable bags at the Chili Eco Park recycling center. The Eco Park is open for drop off every Wednesday and Saturday, no appointment required.

"Disposable vaping products are toxic and unsafe for our environment. This makes them a health threat to all of us, even if we don't use them," said Dr. Michael Mendoza, the Monroe County Public Health Commissioner. "I commend the Bello County Executive, the Department of Environmental Services, and all of our partners for leading the way in addressing this emerging public health problem."

It is estimated that 44.7 million tons of e-waste are generated globally each year. The waste contains up to $65 billion worth of raw materials such as gold, silver and platinum that are sent to landfills.

According to the study, the amount of global e-waste is expected to increase by nearly 17% to 52.2 million tons by 2021, or about 8% per year.

E-cigarette products contain lithium-ion batteries, heating elements and circuit boards. These ingredients, which can include plastics and heavy metals, make handling e-cigarettes a considerable challenge due to the various types of chemicals and materials involved in their manufacture.

There are no direct regulations in the United States regarding the recycling or use of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products (HTP), or cellulose acetate filters in combustible cigarettes.

There is legislation governing e-waste management; however, these guidelines generally only apply to cell phones, computers, and other large electronics.