Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh confirmed today that single-use vapes, which cannot be recharged or refilled, will be banned from 1 June 2025 as the parliament lays down new legislation
Single-use vapes are becoming a significant litter problem in the UK, with a large majority of them being discarded as general litter.
The impact of single-use vapes on the environment
Even when disposed of properly and sent to recycling facilities they require dismantling individually, which is not keeping pace with their production.
Recent estimates have indicated that nearly five million single-use vapes are thrown away or littered in the UK each week. In 2022, over 40 tonnes of lithium from these devices will be wasted, which is enough to power around 5,000 electric cars. The lithium batteries in the vapes also pose a fire risk for waste workers.
To try and tackle this growing issue the UK Government is moving to ban the sale of single-use vapes.
This decision aligns with their commitment to foster a circular economy and tackle the rising trend of young people taking up vaping, while also protecting the environment from increasing litter.
Vape usage in England reached over 400% from 2012 to 2023, with 9.1% of the population currently using these products. The long-term health effects of vaping remain unclear, and the addictive nature of nicotine can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and concentration issues.
The government’s plan includes the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, this public health initiative further hopes to prevent young people from becoming addicted to nicotine.
Public support for change
Public support for restrictions on single-use vapes is strong, with 69% of respondents favouring the ban in a recent consultation.
Banning single-use vapes will help keep them out of landfills and prevent harmful materials, such as plastics and metals, from filtering into the environment. It also aims to protect waterways and wildlife from contamination.
When will this ban start to take place?
Legislation for the ban has been proposed, and if approved, businesses will have until June 1, 2025, to sell off any remaining stock. This coordinated effort across the UK government aims to combat the throwaway culture and its impact on the environment.
Environmental advocates stress the importance of this ban, highlighting that disposable vapes are not only wasteful but also harmful to both public health and the planet. As recycling rates decline, the need for sustainable practices becomes increasingly urgent.
The government’s actions represent a commitment to reduce waste, accelerate progress towards net-zero emissions, and create green job opportunities, while also addressing public health concerns related to vaping among youth.
