Scottish Government orders review into environmental impact of disposable vapes

The Scottish Government has announced an urgent review into the environmental impact of disposable vapes – which could result in a total ban.

On Thursday, health secretary Humza Yousaf said ministers would give “consideration” to a prohibition of single-use e-cigarettes.

Zero Waste Scotland will undertake a review into the smoking alternatives, it was confirmed on Friday.

The disposable smoking devices have been linked to issues including litter, plastic waste and fire risk, the Scottish Government said.

“We will consider the evidence and expert advice and come forward with policy options, which could include a potential ban on single-use vapes,” said circular economy minister Lorna Slater.

“Not only are single-use vapes bad for public health, they are also bad for the environment. From litter on our streets, to the risk of fires in waste facilities, there are issues which need to be addressed urgently.”

The vaping industry has hit out at the plans.

Neil McLaren, the co-CEO of Vaping.com, said: “This virtue signalling move from Holyrood reeks of hypocrisy since they’re happy to keep cigarettes on the market.

“Those additional tax revenues must be important.”

Figures have shown e-cigarette use in Britain is on the rise and reached record levels last year.

Statistics indicate an estimated 4.3 million people across Scotland, England and Wales use the devices, 8.3% of adults in the three countries.

An STV News investigation found the number of pupils vaping at high schools has increased substantially over the last four years.

In October, the Irish Government launched a consultation on banning “wasteful” single-use vapes, citing concerns over littering.

Figures have shown e-cigarette use in Britain is on the rise and reached record levels last year.

Statistics indicate an estimated 4.3 million people across Scotland, England and Wales use the devices, 8.3% of adults in the three countries.

An STV News investigation found the number of pupils vaping at high schools has increased substantially over the last four years.