October 24th, 2024

(UK) Government crackdown on single-use vapes

The UK government will ban single-use vapes from June 1, 2025, to reduce environmental waste and protect youth from vaping, with 69% public support for the initiative.

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(UK) Government crackdown on single-use vapes

The UK government has announced a ban on the sale and supply of single-use vapes, set to take effect on June 1, 2025. This decision, confirmed by Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh, aims to address the environmental issues caused by these disposable products, which are often discarded improperly, contributing to litter and waste. Last year, nearly five million single-use vapes were thrown away weekly in the UK, leading to significant environmental concerns, including the disposal of lithium batteries that pose fire risks. The ban is part of a broader initiative to promote a circular economy and reduce the appeal of vaping among young people, with statistics showing a rise in vape usage among minors. The government plans to introduce the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to protect youth from nicotine addiction. Public support for the ban is strong, with 69% of respondents in a recent consultation favoring restrictions on single-use vapes. The legislation will allow businesses until June 2025 to sell off existing stock before the ban is enforced. This move is seen as a critical step towards reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainable practices.

- The UK will ban single-use vapes starting June 1, 2025.

- Nearly five million single-use vapes are discarded weekly in the UK.

- The ban aims to reduce environmental litter and protect youth from vaping.

- Public support for the ban is high, with 69% in favor.

- The legislation is part of a broader initiative to promote a circular economy.

Link Icon 3 comments
By @cedws - 6 months
Like closing the gate after the horse has bolted. The damage has already been done. Why does everything take so long in this country?

Putting the ban so far out means they’re going to continue selling up until the last minute, and they’ll sell at reduced price closer to the ban which will increase consumption.

By @ProxCoques - 6 months
If (and it's a big if) the human race survives to deal with the effects of climate change, the next great battle will be to prevent waste from becoming the existential problem.