The UK has banned the sale of single-use disposable vapes as part of efforts to protect children’s health and reduce waste. The ban, which comes into effect on Sunday, prohibits shops and supermarkets from stocking disposable vapes but allows them to sell rechargeable or refillable devices.
The move is aimed at tackling youth vaping, with the government citing disposable vapes as a key driver in the rise of e-cigarette use among children. Every week, five million vapes are thrown away, with retailers breaching the ban facing fines of up to £200 for the first offence and potentially unlimited fines or jail for repeat offenders.
Health experts say that further regulation is needed to tackle youth vaping, while some argue that bans will not be effective in addressing the issue. The government claims the ban will have a significant impact on reducing waste and protecting the environment, with disposable vapes contributing significantly to landfill waste and pollution.
As one in four vapers use disposable vapes, which are often sold in smaller, more colourful packaging than refillable ones, there is concern that new products may fill the gap left by the ban. Experts say that more regulation and education are needed to address youth vaping and ensure that alternative products are sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The UK’s move follows similar bans introduced in Scotland and Northern Ireland, with Labour pushing ahead with the legislation after the previous Conservative government failed to enact it before the general election.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c80kxx2xr77o