England will ban the sale of disposable vapes from June 2025, as confirmed by the government. The move, aimed at curbing environmental harm and reducing youth vaping, follows concerns over the widespread use of single-use vapes by children.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) announced the new legislation, which was introduced in parliament. Businesses will have until June 1, 2025, to sell off any remaining stock and prepare for the ban. Defra has coordinated with devolved governments to ensure consistent enforcement dates across the UK.
Mary Creagh, Circular Economy Minister, called the devices “extremely wasteful” and emphasised the need to reduce single-use products to meet environmental goals. She described the ban as the first step toward a circular economy, with a focus on reducing waste, achieving net-zero emissions and creating jobs.
Despite this, the vaping industry has voiced concerns about unintended consequences. John Dunne, Director General of the UK Vaping Industry Association, warned that the ban could fuel black market sales if not accompanied by an import ban. He suggested consumers might turn to overseas purchases, creating a market that’s difficult to regulate.
The legislation follows a sharp rise in vape use, with nearly five million disposable vapes discarded weekly in the UK. Defra reported a 400% increase in vaping since 2012.
The government also plans to introduce a tobacco and vapes bill to limit sales and marketing to children, marking a significant public health intervention.
[Image created via MidJourney]