UK's Vape Ban: Will it Solve the Waste Problem or Create a Black Market?

The UK is set to ban disposable vapes this Sunday, aiming to curb environmental waste and protect young people. However, experts warn that the legislation may not be enough. According to the report, 11% of British adults use e-cigarettes, the highest ever recorded. Health officials are particularly concerned about secondary school pupils, with one in four 11-to-15-year-olds having tried vaping. An estimated 8.2 million disposable vapes are thrown away each year. Khadeeja Osman from Bristol Waste highlights the environmental damage caused by the hazardous chemicals and lithium-ion batteries in vapes. "Vapes contain a lot of hazardous chemicals, things like copper and cobalt, so really, really damaging for wildlife, waterways, and people." Despite the ban, concerns remain about a potential black market, as the government hasn't banned importation. John Dunne from the UK Vaping Industry Association points out that consumers can still buy them online. The report concludes with a discussion on whether the ban will be effective in deterring young people and reducing waste, and the need for more stringent measures.