England and Wales to Ban Disposable Vapes by June 2025
The UK government announced a ban on single-use disposable vapes in England and Wales effective from 1 June 2025 to reduce youth vaping and manage environmental waste. Concerns over the products' health impacts on children and their contribution to waste challenges spurred this move. Scotland will align its ban date, and industry leaders express concern over potential illegal sales.
The UK government has confirmed plans to ban the sale of single-use disposable vapes in England and Wales starting 1 June 2025.
This decision aligns with efforts to address the increasing use of disposable vapes among youths and the environmental issues they cause.
The move follows concerns about health impacts on children and environmental damage due to the disposal of these products.
Public health officials noted that disposable vapes, often marketed in vibrant packaging, are significant contributors to an alarming rise in vaping among young people.
Scotland, originally planning a similar ban for April 2025, will now implement it simultaneously with England and Wales.
The measure excludes rechargeable or refillable vapes and is part of wider attempts to manage recycling challenges posed by disposable vapes, which contain hazardous materials like lithium and lead to significant waste issues.
Industry experts warn the ban could exacerbate illegal sales.
Meanwhile, Health Secretary Wes Streeting also announced future plans to introduce a bill to end smoking by preventing the sale of cigarettes to anyone born after January 2009.