Disposable vapes have surged in popularity over the years, providing smokers with a handy way to get off the cigarettes once and for all, and enticing social vapers with their ease-of-use and attractive flavours.
However, the convenient and attractive nature of these devices has also lured the attention of minors, resulting in the UK’s decision to ban disposable vapes, which was announced by the Prime Minister on 24th January 2024.
As a vaper, you will want to learn more about the UK disposable vaping ban and what this means for you and your favourite vape supplier. Read on to learn more.
What Are Disposable Vapes?
Disposable vapes are electronic devices which come pre-filled with flavourful e-liquid and pre-charged, meaning they are conveniently ready to vape straight from the packet. A disposable vape typically comprises a battery, logic board, wick, and coil, typically available with a 20mg nicotine strength. However, some vapes also come with a 10mg or 0mg strength.
Disposable vapes can be used simply by inhaling on the mouthpiece, making them incredibly appealing to customers who want to avoid high-maintenance usage, such as social or beginner vapers.
Why Is the UK Going to Ban Disposable Vapes?
We’ve already seen the ban on menthol cigarette products, and now the government is exercising its powers to ban disposable vapes too.
The main reason as to why the government is banning disposable vapes is to protect the health of the younger generation. There has been a marked increase in the number of young people who vape, and this ban is part of the government’s plan to crack down on youth vaping usage as part of the new vape law in the UK. After all, since 2018, there has been a 6% rise in the number of 11-15-year-olds vaping, with 9% using an e-cigarette in total.
The long-term effects of vaping are still unknown amongst scientists, and the nicotine contained in vapes can be extremely addictive. This is especially concerning for those who should not be vaping as their bodies are still developing.
Some flavour bans have already been implemented in other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, due to the appeal of sweet flavours to younger demographics, prompting the UK to evaluate its own marketing on sweet-flavoured vapes.
What’s more, disposable vapes are terrible for the environment. It was found that five million disposable vapes are thrown away each week, seriously harming our ecosystem. As a result, the government will ban disposable vapes in the UK by using its powers under the Environmental Protection Act.
When Do Disposable Vapes Get Banned?
The date when disposable vapes will be banned is still currently unknown as the bill is yet to be passed by parliament.
It is predicted that the bill will pass in late 2024, with the ban being implemented in 2025. Retailers will be given half a year to phase out disposable vaping products from their markets and start following the new UK law.
The Implications of the UK Disposable Vape Ban
We predict a few different implications of the UK disposable vape ban, including:
- Reduced vape usage by under 18s
The main impact of the ban will be that fewer minors will vape. In the meantime, the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) has encouraged limiting packaging that appeals to children and increasing fines for selling to minors. Furthermore, some have proposed that vapes should be kept out of sight of under 18s and kept separated from sweet products to further decrease vape sales among under 18s.
- Economic implications
The UK disposable vape ban may negatively affect revenue in the vape industry, including the revenue of manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. This may lead to the loss of jobs, downsized companies, and decreased tax revenue. Whilst vaping has encouraged smokers to shift towards vaping, and thus decreasing the economic burden of smoking, the UK disposable vape ban may set this back.
- Environmental implications
It’s thought that the UK disposable vape ban will have positive environmental effects since these devices are made from plastic, create staggering amounts of waste, contain potentially polluting materials and chemicals, and eat up Earth’s valuable resources. Not only are disposable vapes single-use devices, but they are also difficult to recycle, with many people not even being aware of how to recycle them. Alternatives to disposable vapes, such as reusable pod kits, are much less wasteful, which will put less of a strain on our landfill sites.
- A rise in alternatives
When the UK disposable vape ban comes into place, we predict a rise in demand for alternative vaping products, which we will discuss in more detail below. On the other hand, some users may return to smoking.
What Are Some Alternatives to Try Once the UK Disposable Vaping Ban Occurs?
- Refillable pod vape kits
Refillable pod kits provide a more cost-efficient way to vape than disposable vapes, although components like coils will still need to be replaced. While the maintenance required for these kits may not appeal to some users, they are more economical and more eco-friendly than disposable vapes, with minimal set-up and plenty of flavour options.
Refillable pod kits can also help users decrease nicotine strength over time, which will help some smokers wean off their addiction.
- Vape starter kits
Our starter kits are not only easy for beginner vapers, but they can also be recharged and used again and again. Check out our guide on beginner vape kits for more information.
- Advanced vape kits
Advanced vape kits offer a rechargeable and more customisable experience for advanced vapers, including sub-ohm vape tanks and rebuildable coils.
- Vape mod kits
In the long run, vape mod kits are also cheaper than disposable vapes. Whilst parts must be replaced, the kits can be recharged, meaning you can use them over again. Because of this, they are still a convenient solution for those who love the ease of disposable vapes, making the transition from disposables to vape mods quite streamlined.
The UK Disposable Vape Ban: What Next?
Now that you have a better idea about what the UK disposable vape ban means for you, you can decide what to do next. At Vape Town, our team is always happy to help you navigate the world of vaping, and can offer impartial, expert advice on the best vaping device for you. Contact us today or pop into your local Vape Town store to speak with a member of the team.
If you are ready to explore your alternative vaping options, please shop our collection online! We stock the most-loved and most-reliable vape brands in the UK, with vaping devices and accessories to suit every need.