October 24, 2024, 00:21 | Updated: October 24, 2024, 00:23

A ban on disposable vapes is being introduced as more young people become addicted to sweet-tasting e-cigarettes.

The measure also aims to reduce the growing problem of plastic waste, with five million vapes thrown away every week last year, four times the amount in 2022, according to The Sun.

New regulations will force English suppliers to remove all disposable vape products by June 1, 2025.

The government expects Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow the same timetable.

However, rechargeable vapes will still be available, as they are used by doctors to help people quit smoking.

The move comes amid growing concerns about children illegally purchasing disposable vapes, many of which are sold in bright packaging in flavors like bubblegum, grape and strawberry.

Ministers are also seeking to prevent environmental damage caused by inappropriate and lazy disposal of these devices.

“Disposable products are the product of choice for most kids vaping today. Banning them will help protect vulnerable young people.

Environment Minister Mary Creagh added: “Single-use vapes waste valuable resources and pollute our towns, parks and cities.

In 2022 alone, more than 40 tonnes of lithium from vape batteries were thrown away in the UK, enough to power 5,000 electric cars. »

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Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is bracing for further accusations of “nanny state” interference following several recent measures, including a proposed ban on smoking outdoors.

Health Minister Andrew Gwynne expressed his concern, saying: “It’s alarming that one in four young people aged 11 to 15 have used a vape in the last year. »

“That’s why we’re banning single-use vapes as part of our efforts to combat throwaway culture.”

Disposable vapes cost between £3 and £10 depending on the brand, with the entire e-cigarette industry in Britain valued at around £2.8 billion.

Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak first revealed plans to ban disposable vapes in January, in response to evidence showing the number of children using them had tripled in just three years.

Overall vape use across all age groups has increased by over 400% since 2012.

Although Labor initially backed Mr Sunak’s proposal, the party did not include a ban on disposable vapes in its election manifesto.