Ban on disposable vapes to take effect in June 2025

The sale of disposable vapes will be banned in England and Wales from June next year, the government has confirmed. The move, which was initially announced by the previous government in January but delayed due to the general election, is aimed at protecting children's health and reducing environmental damage.

Ministers in England said the ban would help curb the alarming rise in youth vaping, which has become a growing concern. Earlier this year, they said: “Disposable vapes are a key driver behind the alarming rise in youth vaping."

Disposable vapes, which are often sold in smaller and more colourful packaging than refillable ones, have been particularly popular among younger users.

The Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra) highlighted the sharp increase in vape usage, with the number of vapers in England growing by more than 400% between 2012 and 2023.

Currently, around 9% of the British public use vapes. Many of these users, particularly young adults, have never smoked before but have taken up vaping in recent years.

The government has been working closely with the devolved nations to ensure that the ban is implemented smoothly across the UK. Wales has already confirmed that it will follow suit, with both nations planning to align their timelines for the ban.

However, leaders in the vaping industry have raised concerns about the impact of the ban. They warned that it could lead to a rise in illegal sales of disposable vapes, which could be difficult to regulate once the ban is in place.
 

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Although it is already illegal to sell vapes to anyone under the age of 18, the new regulations are being introduced to further restrict access to disposable vapes, particularly among younger people.

Environmental factors have also played a key role in the decision, as disposable vapes are often seen as a significant source of waste due to their single-use nature.

Responding to the Government's announcement of a ban on single-use vapes, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board said: “We’re delighted that the Government has listened to the longstanding concerns of the LGA and councils and is taking decisive action to ban single-use vapes from 1 June 2025.
 

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“With over 5 million thrown away each week. Disposable vapes are inherently unsustainable products, meaning an outright ban remains the most effective solution to this problem.

“Single use vapes blight our streets as litter, are a hazard in our bin lorries, and are expensive and difficult to deal with in our recycling centres. Their colours, flavours and advertising are appealing to children and are a risk to the health of young people.

“We look forward to working with the Government and others to enforce this ban as well as ensure plans for a smoke free generation are a success.”