Customers are treating refillable vapes just like disposables, due to both out of habit and comparable prices of the two versions, stated a recent report as the UK prepared to ban single-use vapes from Sunday (June 1).
According to a Times report published today (May 31), many users, particularly young vapers, are simply tossing rechargeable devices after the use, defeating the environmental and public health goals that underpin the legislation.
The ban aims to crackdown on non-rechargeable, non-refillable vapes single-use vapes in a bid to reduce electronic waste and stem the rise of youth vaping. But as the Times investigation highlights, the real-world behaviour of consumers may render the new law largely symbolic.
Retailers and public health experts alike are expressing doubts. While the government’s intent is to usher in a more sustainable and responsible vaping culture, many products now being sold as “refillable” still mimic the look and feel of traditional disposables, and are marketed in similar flavours and price points.
The only difference is technical that they can, in theory, be recharged or refilled though the fact remains that most users never bother.
“Instead of charging it, people will throw it in the bin, use it as a disposable,” The Times quoted a 19-year-old vaper as saying. “Even if the price went up they’d still do it, because it’s what you do. It’s not going to stop the kids. If the kids are going to vape or smoke, they’re going to vape or smoke.”
The report quoted another user saying that refillable, rechargeable versions of the disposal vapes are not “giving the same full flavour by putting replacement pods in”, suggesting that the habit of using disposable vapes just might turn out a tough one to break.
The legislation does include enforcement measures, such as £200 on-the-spot fines, with heavier penalties, including unlimited fines and prison sentences, for serious or repeated offenders.
But many in the sector question whether enforcement capacity exists at a local level to stem the tide of illicit products, let alone enforce behaviour change among consumers.
Indeed, the Times report flags mounting concern over an already thriving black market for illegal disposables, which could grow further as legitimate channels are squeezed.
Richard Begg, head of learning and development for the specialist vape shop VPZ, said, “You’ve got to remember the amount of money that’s in this disposable industry. Trading Standards are really up against it. The basic fine is £200, it needs to be at least £10,000."