Single-use vapes ban comes into force in Wales this weekend
They're being banned in Wales and across the UK in a bid to reduce their environmental impact
The ban on single-use vapes comes into force in Wales - and across the rest of the UK - this weekend.
It's happening from tomorrow (1 June) to reduce the environmental harm caused by their production and incorrect disposal.
New data from charity Action on Smoking and Health shows the number of vapers who mainly use disposables fell six per cent in the last year.
Keep Wales Tidy estimates that over just one year, 360,000 single-use vapes are littered on the ground in Wales, while 120,000 are flushed down the toilet.
The Welsh Labour Government say it has worked closely with the UK Labour Government to ensure the ban operates on the same timescale cross-border to maximise compliance and to allow around 2000 small- and-medium-sized retailers across Wales time to take action.
The move follows the Welsh Labour Government’s commitment to put its response to the climate and nature emergency at the forefront of everything it does.
'Tackling the priorities of the people of Wales'
First Minister, Eluned Morgan, said: “Littering from single-use vapes spoils our communities and we have been working in partnership with the UK and devolved Governments to ensure there are no loopholes, with the ban running to the same timescales as the rest of the UK.
“Here is yet another example of governments working in partnership to tackle the priorities of the people of Wales.”
'Single-use vapes are a blight on our wildlife'
Deputy First Minister, with responsibility for Climate Change, Huw Irranca-Davies said: “Single-use vapes are a blight on our wildlife and environment, and this ban will massively reduce the litter and pollution they cause in Welsh communities.
“This weekend is another demonstration of your Welsh Labour Government’s commitment to nature, addressing the climate emergency and contributes towards Wales’s position as the second-best recycling nation in the world.
“Whilst other parties are posturing, Welsh Labour is delivering.”
Iechyd Da – better health
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sarah Murphy added: “The positive health impact of this ban will help us protect children and young people from these products and the harms caused by nicotine addiction.
“One of the Welsh Labour Government and First Minister’s priorities is Iechyd Da – better health, and this is a significant step forward in limiting the health hazards and harms resulting from vape products.”