Starting from Sunday, 1 June 2025, it will be illegal for businesses in the UK to sell or supply single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes.
The new legislation applies to all disposable vapes, regardless of whether they contain nicotine, and covers both in-store and online sales.
The ban targets all non-rechargeable, non-refillable vaping products. However, rechargeable and refillable vape devices are not affected and will remain legal for sale.
The UK Government is implementing the ban to address the environmental impact of disposable vape waste. Currently, nearly five million single-use vapes are discarded every week, contributing significantly to litter and landfill issues.
In addition to environmental concerns, the legislation also seeks to reduce the rising popularity of vaping among young people.
The proportion of 16 to 24-year-olds who vape has increased by almost 10% over the past two years.
In Liverpool, disposable vapes are particularly popular among young people, with 78% choosing non-rechargeable, non-refillable products.
Health officials have raised concerns about the role of marketing in attracting underage users, including the use of sweet-flavoured products and child-friendly packaging.
On 20 June 2023, directors of Public Health across Merseyside released a joint statement in support of the ban, highlighting the need to protect children from aggressive marketing by vape and tobacco companies.
Residents can return reusable vapes to distributors for recycling. Many retailers have a legal responsibility to accept ‘Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment’ (WEEE) and provide designated storage bins to ensure old vapes are properly stored and recycled.
From 1 June 2025, if a retailer possesses any leftover single-use vaping products, they should:
- Separate them from other goods
- Label them as unsellable
- Remove from the shopfloor or online store until they’ve been collected by a registered vape recycling service
For more information go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/single-use-vapes-ban
Local retailers can also seek further guidance by Liverpool Trading Standards: trading.standards@liverpool.gov.uk
For support to quit smoking contact Smokefree Liverpool at: Tel 0151 374 2535, Text QUIT1 to 61825 or visit www.smokefreeliverpool.co.uk
Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Street Scene said:
“This ban is a crucial step in protecting our communities and environment from the growing issue of disposable vape waste.
“With millions being discarded every week, we must take action to prevent littering and reduce the amount of waste sent to incineration. This legislation will help create a cleaner, safer Liverpool for everyone.”
Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health, commented:
“We strongly support this ban. While rechargeable or refillable devices can help adults quit smoking, it’s essential to emphasise that vaping is not for young people.
“Disposable e-cigarettes have played a major role in the sharp increase in young people vaping over the past five years. Without further product and branding regulations, this will not go far enough in addressing the popularity of vapes among teenagers.
“Further powers to restrict sweet liquid flavours, introduce plain packaging, and change how vapes are displayed in shops must be available to further minimise their use by young people. The Government must continue to introduce the proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill swiftly.”
