The UKVIA has said more can be done to cut down on environmental waste before a ban on single-use disposable vapes should be considered.  

The vape trade body joined experts on an All-Party Parliamentary Group for the environment in Westminster earlier this week. Environment minister, Rebecca Pow, noted the main value of vaping as a means to help people stop smoking and the second government priority of preventing youth access to vapes.

Director general John Dunne agreed, claiming there is more to be done before looking at banning disposable vapes, and that such a ban would not help the hundreds of people dying from smoking-related illnesses.

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“Research from the Royal College of Physicians and Cancer Research UK says that vaping is the best way to quit smoking and 95% less harmful. Vaping is the best chance we have,” he said.

However, the UKVIA did recognise its role in finding effective environmental solutions and noted how several waste management companies and manufacturers, under the UKVIA, have created more sustainable materials for vapes including cardboard and biodegradable silicone, which has been a successful step forward.  

Financial journalist Alexandra Heal, who was also in attendance, revealed that last year 138m disposable vapes were sold, equating to two per person.

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