Council welcomes ban on single use vapes

Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards Service is supporting the government’s decision to ban single use vapes.

The ban which comes into force on 1 June, aims to tackle the growing public health and environmental concerns associated with disposable vapes. 

The government has introduced several proposals to reduce youth vaping, including restricting vape flavours, regulating vape packaging and point of sale displays, and restricting the sale of disposable vapes.

In Staffordshire, since 2022, the service has seized more than 32,000 illegal and oversized vapes from shops across the county. 

These unregulated products pose significant health risks and may contain harmful substances and incorrect nicotine levels.  They often fail to meet safety standards, leading to potential risks like overheating.

Disposable vapes are also difficult to recycle and have a devastating effect on the environment.

Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Staffordshire County Council, said: “We fully support the ban on single use vapes as it strengthens our ongoing efforts to protect public health and the environment.

“Since 2022 our Trading Standards team has seized over 30,000 illegal and oversized vapes, working tirelessly to tackle this growing concern.

“What’s particularly alarming is how disposable vapes appeal to young people, possibly due to the bright colours, sweet flavours and eye-catching packaging which makes them attractive, despite it being illegal to sell vapes to minors.

“Beyond these health risks, disposable vapes contribute to environmental damage, littering our streets and proving difficult to recycle.

“We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and purchase only from reputable sources and help support a safer, healthier community for all."

People can report the sale of illicit, illegal or counterfeit goods on the Trading Standards webpage or the confidential helpline on 01785330356.