Will New Zealand ban disposable vapes?

Disposable vapes are a popular choice for smokers looking to quit, but they are also a major source of litter and environmental pollution. In 2022, the New Zealand government announced that it was considering banning disposable vapes, and a public consultation process is currently underway.

What are disposable vapes?

Disposable vapes are small, pre-filled electronic cigarettes that are designed to be used once and then discarded. They are typically made of plastic and metal, and they contain a battery, a heating element, and a liquid e-liquid. When the user takes a puff on the vape, the battery heats the e-liquid, which turns into a vapor that is inhaled.

Why is the New Zealand government considering banning disposable vapes?

There are a number of reasons why the New Zealand government is considering banning disposable vape. First, they are a major source of litter. Disposable vapes are often discarded after just a single use, and they can end up in waterways and oceans, where they can harm wildlife and pollute the environment.

Second, disposable vapes are a major source of environmental pollution. The batteries in disposable vapes contain hazardous materials such as lithium and cadmium, which can leach into the environment if they are not properly disposed of. In addition, the manufacturing and transportation of disposable vapes produces greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change.

Third, disposable vapes are often marketed to young people. The bright colors and flavors of disposable vapes can make them appealing to children and teenagers, even though they are not legal to purchase or use under the age of 18. Vaping can be harmful to young people's health, and it can also lead to nicotine addiction.

What are the arguments against banning disposable vapes?

Some people argue that a ban would be unfair to adults who use disposable vapes to quit smoking. Disposable vapes can be a convenient and affordable way for smokers to switch to vaping, and a ban could make it more difficult for them to quit.

Others argue that a ban would be ineffective. They point out that disposable vapes are already illegal to sell to minors, but that this law is not always enforced. They also argue that a ban would create a black market for disposable vapes, which could make them more dangerous to users.

Still others argue that a ban would be unfair to businesses that sell disposable vapes. Disposable vapes are a major source of revenue for many small businesses, and a ban could put them out of business.

What is the next step?

The New Zealand government is currently considering all of these arguments before making a decision about whether or not to ban disposable vapes. The public consultation process is ongoing, and the government is expected to make a decision in the coming months.

In the meantime, there are a number of things that people can do to reduce the environmental impact of disposable vapes. If you do use disposable vapes, be sure to dispose of them properly. You can do this by recycling the batteries and discarding the plastic and metal components in a landfill. You can also choose to switch to a reusable vape device, which is more environmentally friendly and can save you money in the long run.