New law curbs waste and protects young people from vapes
The Government has announced a ban on single-use vapes, set to come into force on 1 June 2025. This aims to tackle the growing environmental damage caused by disposable vapes, and the UK’s litter problem.
A growing environmental concern of vapes
Currently, people throw away eight vapes every second in the UK. Many end up in landfills or are incinerated, releasing harmful chemicals. Lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk, and disposal has become a critical issue. In 2022 alone, over 40 tonnes of lithium from them were discarded, the same amount used to power 5,000 electric cars.
The new law marks the first step towards a circular economy, where waste is reduced and resources are reused. Environment Secretary Steve Reed stressed that the ban will help tackle the country’s “throwaway culture,” which blights streets and harms wildlife.
Health and safety concerns
The rise of disposable vapes has also raised health concerns. Minister for Public Health and Prevention, Andrew Gwynne, highlighted the worrying statistic that a quarter of 11-15-year-olds used a vape last year, with most opting for single-use products. The ban aims to make vaping less appealing to children while protecting vulnerable young people from nicotine addiction.
Public support for the ban on vapes
In a public consultation, 69% of respondents backed the ban. Many recognised the environmental impact, including the plastic and toxic materials they contain. Libby Peake, head of resources at Green Alliance, welcomed the ban, noting that disposable vapes waste critical resources such as lithium, essential for electric vehicles.
Moving towards a sustainable future
The Government’s decision to ban single-use vapes aligns with its wider commitment to building a sustainable future. By encouraging the reuse and recycling of materials, the ban is a step towards reducing the avalanche of waste filling up streets and oceans.
Businesses now have until 1 June 2025 to sell remaining stock and prepare for the ban. To learn more about the Government’s steps towards a greener economy, visit gov.uk.