From tomorrow, single-use vapes will no longer be sold in shops across the country. The government is taking strong action to stop these disposable vapes from being sold in corner shops and supermarkets. This move is aimed at protecting young people from nicotine addiction and reducing the growing problem of vape litter on streets and in playgrounds.
What Is Changing?
Starting Sunday, 1 June, it will be illegal to sell single-use or disposable vapes in all stores. This ban is part of a bigger government plan to stop the rise of vaping, especially among young people, and to reduce the amount of waste caused by these throwaway products. The government wants to make sure fewer kids get hooked on nicotine and that the environment is protected from the damage caused by vape litter.
Why Are Single-Use Vapes Being Banned?
Single-use vapes cannot be refilled or recharged, so people often throw them away after one use. This causes huge problems with rubbish piling up on streets and in parks. Recycling these vapes is very difficult because they contain batteries that can catch fire and harmful chemicals that can leak into the environment. The government also wants to protect young people who are attracted to these cheap and easy-to-use devices.
Effects of the Ban So Far
Even before the ban officially starts, many people have stopped using disposable vapes. According to charity Action on Smoking and Health, the number of vapers using single-use devices dropped from 30% in 2024 to 24% in 2025. Among young adults aged 18 to 24, disposable vape use fell from 52% to 40%. But the government says this is still too high and expects the ban to reduce these numbers even more.
Rules and Penalties
Stores that break the rules and sell disposable vapes will face strict penalties. First-time offenders can be fined £200, and all illegal products will be taken away. Repeat offenders could face unlimited fines or even jail time. Authorities are working closely with retailers to help them follow the rules and stop illegal sales.
What Are Experts Saying?
Government officials and health experts agree this ban is an important step. Circular Economy Minister Mary Creagh said the ban will stop vape litter and protect children from nicotine addiction. Action on Smoking and Health’s Caroline Cerny highlighted that many young people are switching to reusable vapes, which can be refilled and recycled more easily.
Environmental groups also support the ban. Libby Peake from Green Alliance explained that single-use vapes waste valuable resources and have caused fires at waste sites. She praised the government for pushing people towards reusable and refillable options. Meanwhile, experts in recycling hope the ban will reduce vape waste and fire risks at recycling centres.
The ban on single-use vapes is a big step in protecting both young people’s health and the environment. By stopping the sale of disposable vapes, the government aims to reduce litter, prevent nicotine addiction among youth, and encourage safer, more sustainable vaping options. With strong enforcement measures and support for retailers, this law will help change how people use vape products and keep the streets cleaner for everyone.
