Wrexham MS welcomes the new ban on single use vapes
A significant change in the law came into effect at the beginning of this month relating to disposable vapes.
Since 1st June, it has been illegal for businesses in the UK to sell or supply single use vapes.
The aim of the ban is to reduce the environmental harm caused by their production and incorrect disposal.
Keep Wales Tidy estimates that over the course of just one year, 360,000 single use vapes are littered on the ground in Wales, while 120,000 are flushed down the toilet.
Retailers caught breaking the law face a fine and a possible prison sentence for repeat offences.
To be clear, it isn't illegal to own a disposable vape after 1 June.
Customers can still return them, and retailers have an obligation to get rid of them.
They can also be taken to a local authority recycling centre to be disposed of safely.
Single use vapes create litter and plastic pollution and I welcome this ban as it will help stop the serious harm these products cause to our wildlife and environment.
Anyone looking to do a spot of walking this week may want to take part in this year's Wrexham Walking Festival.
As well as promoting the natural beauty and history of North East Wales, the annual event encourages people to venture outdoors and live healthier lifestyles.
From Saturday 7th through to Sunday 15th June, a series of free walks are taking place exploring our region's scenic landscape and people of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in.
Walks are graded depending on difficulty.
Harder walks are at least 6 miles in length and will cross rough ground so walkers require a good level of fitness.
There are also shorter, less strenuous walks so there is something to suit everyone.
Over the years, the festival has attracted walkers from across the UK to visit our region.
Last year more than 550 people took part and as a long-time supporter of the event, I hope this year's will be the most successful yet.
Further information can be found on the website – www.walksinwrexham.com – or by contacting the Wrexham Visitor Information Centre on Chester Street.
As always, if you're a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please contact me via email: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales or call 01978 355743.
You can also keep up to date by following me on 'X' (Twitter) and Facebook, just search @lesley4wrexham.
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