First Minister Humza Yousaf has unveiled his first Scottish Programme for Government that includes a commitment to take action to reduce vaping among non-smokers and young people and to tackle the environmental impact of single-use vapes, including consulting on a proposal to ban their sale and other appropriate measures.
Research suggests that almost one in five (18%) of adolescents have tried vapes. Zero Waste Scotland estimates that up to 26 million disposable vapes were consumed and thrown away in Scotland in the last year, with 10% being littered and more than half disposed of incorrectly.
With millions of vapes littered every year, there is a significant and increasing cost to local authorities through litter clear up and waste management.
Following a request of Scottish Ministers, the Circular Economy Minister and Public Health Minister will meet with counterparts in the UK government, Welsh government, and Northern Ireland Executive to discuss the findings of recent research and potential policy responses.
In addition, action to help ensure that children, young people and non-smokers do not use these devices will also be set out in this year’s refreshed Tobacco Action Plan, which will set out a road map to 2034.
Yousaf said: “We will be working constructively with retailers and other stakeholders to come up with solutions. While we will be asking for views on a ban, we are also keen to explore other interventions that could have a more immediate impact.
“Of course, this is not just an issue for Scotland – these problems are being experienced all over the UK and we will soon be holding discussions on potential solutions.”
In response, ACS Chief Executive James Lowman, said: “We welcome a consultation on preventing young people from accessing vaping products and addressing their environmental impact. The vaping category has grown significantly over the past few years and convenience stores across Scotland are committed to the responsible sale of these products.
“More enforcement action and clearer regulation of the vaping market is needed, but a sweeping ban on single-use vapes would be an overaction to a category that can play a positive role in meeting Scotland’s 2034 tobacco-free targets.”
The NFRN’s President in Scotland, Hussan Lal, said: “Banning disposable vapes will simply expand an already booming illicit market. Vapes help many give up smoking and are part of life now. I am confident the black market will become even more active. These illicit products are already on sale at car boot sales, mobile phone shops, cafes and tanning salons as well as via the internet and by dealers delivering direct to homes.
“Rather than looking to ban single use vapes, the government should be looking at responsible ways of recycling them and more educational campaigns.”
