UK councils call for total ban on disposable vapes by 2024

The Local Government Association has called for a ban on the sale of disposable vapes, with 1.3m of them being thrown away every week.

Disposable vapes are small, pre-filled electronic cigarettes that are designed to be used once and then discarded. They have become increasingly popular in recent years, due to their convenience and affordability.

Not only are there negative consumption externalities associated with their disposal, but these councils argue that they are also appealing to children, which has adverse health implications too. David Fothergill, the chair of the Local Government Association's community wellbeing board, said the products were “fundamentally flawed in their design” and “inherently unsustainable”.

Here is an examination of some of the potential costs and benefits associated with increased consumption of disposable vapes:

Benefits:

• Harm Reduction: One potential benefit of disposable vapes is harm reduction compared to traditional combustible cigarettes. Vapes are generally considered less harmful because they do not produce tobacco smoke, which contains numerous toxic chemicals. Switching from combustible cigarettes to disposable vapes may reduce exposure to harmful substances and associated health risks.
• Smoking Cessation Aid: Disposable vapes can serve as a tool for individuals who want to quit smoking. Some people find that using vapes helps them transition away from traditional cigarettes and eventually quit nicotine altogether. For individuals seeking alternatives to smoking, disposable vapes may offer a less harmful option.

Costs:

1. Health Concerns: While disposable vapes are generally considered less harmful than combustible cigarettes, they are not without risks. The long-term health effects of vaping are still being studied, and there is evidence suggesting potential adverse effects on respiratory and cardiovascular health. Additionally, the use of disposable vapes among non-smoking individuals, particularly young people, can lead to nicotine addiction and serve as a gateway to traditional smoking.
2. Environmental Impact: Disposable vapes contribute to the growing problem of electronic waste. Since they are designed for single-use and often contain non-recyclable components, increased consumption of disposable vapes can contribute to environmental pollution. The improper disposal of these devices can result in harmful chemicals leaching into the soil and water systems.
3. Regulation and Quality Control: The vaping industry has faced challenges related to regulation and quality control. Some disposable vapes have been found to contain harmful substances, including heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Inadequate regulation and oversight can lead to product quality issues, potentially putting consumers at risk.