The UK's vaping market has seen a surge with disposable vapes flying off the shelves at an impressive rate of 7.7 million units every week in 2023.(1) While they are notably favoured, they aren’t without drawbacks. Presently, the UK government is weighing the pros and cons of these devices, given concerns about underage usage and environmental issues. Here, we delve into the discussion surrounding the potential ban on disposable vapes.
The Possible Ban on Disposable Vapes: Key Points
Concerns over disposable vapes primarily stem from their attractiveness to the younger generation and the enormous waste they generate. Despite their harmful effects, they’ve provided a viable alternative for smokers wanting to quit, being both easy to handle and affordable. The challenge now is striking a balance between facilitating smoking cessation and safeguarding minors and the environment.
Past measures to curb smoking saw the introduction of the Tobacco and Regulated Products Regulations (TRPR) in 2016. This legislation placed strict regulations on vaping products. However, there has been an alarming growth in the black market, selling dangerous, unregulated vaping products. A considerable portion, 50% to be exact, of disposable vape sales originates from this market, according to the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA).(3)
Understanding Disposable Vapes
Easy-to-use, ready-to-go devices, disposable vapes need no setup. Users just inhale from them till they run out. For many, they represent the first step away from traditional cigarettes.
The Health Implications
Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has reported a 50% increase in vaping among youngsters in 2023.(4) Of these, a surprising 2.1% got their initial vape for free from promotions. Although vapes are generally safer for adults, nicotine can be detrimental to adolescent brain development, leading to potential long-term health and behavioural problems.
Environmental Considerations
Studies reveal that nearly 5 million disposable vapes end up as waste every week.(6) These discarded devices, laden with precious materials, contribute to environmental pollution. A holistic recycling approach, aligned with local authorities, could be a sustainable solution.
Addressing the Youth Vaping Dilemma
Efforts to curtail youth vaping are pivotal to the disposable vape ban debate. A significant blind spot currently is the plethora of illegal sellers offering these devices to youngsters. ASH recommends higher taxation on disposable vapes to deter young users, along with tighter enforcement of age-related sales restrictions.
Economic Impact
The UK vaping sector is booming, with a total worth of £1.2bn in 2022, out of which disposable vapes contributed £973 million.(10) A blanket ban could hit revenues, leading to potential job losses and significant reductions in tax contributions.
Vaping Industry’s Role in the Discussion
The UKVIA stresses stricter rules to prevent vape sales to minors. They’ve also suggested a heftier fine of £10,000 for non-compliance. They emphasize the importance of eco-friendly packaging and efficient recycling schemes for used devices. Some manufacturers are already opting for greener materials, like Slix, using cardboard and biodegradable silicone in its products.
Effect on Adult Vapers
The adult vaping community in the UK is vast, with disposable vapes being the choice for 31% in 2023, a significant jump from 2.3% in 2021.(14) Shifting users towards refillable vapes could be a viable alternative, ensuring they don’t revert to smoking.
Flavour Ban Debate
Currently, there’s a debate on banning certain vape flavours, especially those that might appeal to youngsters. While these flavours do aid adults in transitioning from cigarettes, a potential ban might see them returning to smoking or resorting to unsafe black-market alternatives.
Quitting Smoking in the Light of a Ban
Disposable vapes have been the bridge for many smokers transitioning to vaping. A ban might make it challenging for smokers to find an easily accessible alternative. Highlighting the benefits of refillable vapes might be the way forward.
In Conclusion
The rise of the black market for disposable vapes, especially those outside TPD regulations, is concerning. To implement an all-encompassing ban, the government must first demonstrate its capability to regulate the existing market. If a ban is indeed introduced, focusing on promoting refillable vapes and making disposable vapes less appealing to the younger generation might be the next logical step.