CAPHRA's position statement outlines two key areas where immediate action is required:
- Availability and Regulation of Disposable Vapes: CAPHRA urges governments to enforce strict age restrictions on the sale of disposable vapes and require retailers to register their products. These measures will minimise the risk of misuse and youth access while maintaining a responsible and transparent market.
- Recycling Requirements for Retailers: CAPHRA calls for the implementation of a legally mandated recycling program for disposable vapes, including a deposit system at the point of sale. This will incentivise the return of used devices, reduce the environmental impact of disposable vapes, and promote responsible disposal practices among consumers.
These recommendations are based on the latest evidence from Public Health England, which supports the role of disposable vapes in tobacco harm reduction efforts. However, CAPHRA stresses the importance of proper regulation and monitoring to protect public health and minimize potential risks associated with these products.
"As we observe World Smokefree Day, it is crucial to remember that disposable vapes have the potential to save lives by offering a less harmful alternative to combustible tobacco, but only if they are properly regulated and monitored," said Nancy Loucas, a prominent New Zealand public health consumer advocate and executive coordinator of CAPHRA.
"We cannot afford to wait any longer. Governments and regulatory bodies must act now to implement the necessary controls and safeguards to protect public health and our environment," said Ms. Loucas.
CAPHRA's call to action serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive and effective regulation of disposable vapes.
“By implementing and enforcing age restrictions, product registration, and recycling requirements, we can ensure that disposable vapes are accessible to adult smokers seeking less harmful alternatives while minimising the potential risks associated with these products, in line with the goals of World Smokefree Day,” Ms. Loucas said.
Dave Cross
Journalist at POTVDave is a freelance writer; with articles on music, motorbikes, football, pop-science, vaping and tobacco harm reduction in Sounds, Melody Maker, UBG, AWoL, Bike, When Saturday Comes, Vape News Magazine, and syndicated across the Johnston Press group. He was published in an anthology of “Greatest Football Writing”, but still believes this was a mistake. Dave contributes sketches to comedy shows and used to co-host a radio sketch show. He’s worked with numerous start-ups to develop content for their websites.
Join the discussion
Harm Reduction For The Rich
The United Kingdom risks becoming a harm reduction country only for the wealthy, according to Michael Landl of the World Vapers’ Alliance
Sacrificing Health For 2p Cut
Tory Government alienates vaping voters with its mission to cut tax by an unaffordable 2p to attract voters by placing a tax on vape products in the forthcoming budget
Scotland Announces Single-Use Vape Action
A ban on the sale and supply of single-use vapes in Scotland is due to come into effect on 1 April 2025, under proposed legislation published today
Industry Licensing Scheme Proposed
A vape industry licensing scheme will generate £50m+ per year to combat underage and illicit vape sales according to industry experts