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The Herald Scotland

Here's a loophole big enough to vape through

Marketed as rechargeable because of their low-quality batteries and replaceable 10ml pods, these devices remain fundamentally disposable, environmentally wasteful, and alluring to young consumers owing to their low cost. In my capacity as the Business Development Director at VPZ, I must strongly encourage the Government to implement more robust measures promptly. Each week in the UK, 8.2 million disposable vapes are discarded, adding to the growing mountains of plastic waste. Super-sized versions will only deepen this environmental catastrophe as they weigh significantly more than the existing 2ml disposables, while making it even easier for underage users to get their hands on devices with 6 times the liquid and nicotine content. There is a growing trend of products with illicit substances through the black market, and this door must be closed. The Government must take ownership of public safety. Seeing Big Puff vapes specifically mentioned in the recent Tobacco and Vapes Bill reading, and the subsequent suggestion of distinct legislation, was a positive development. However, these statements must translate into concrete actions — not just feel-good pronouncements. While the Bill rests with the House of Lords, a window of opportunity remains to affect its passage. But the clock is ticking. The upcoming ban is a testament to the political will and courage of those involved. However, the concurrent allowance of Big Puff disposables is not merely contradictory; it approaches recklessness. Failure of Parliament to take action could lead to another public health and environmental emergency of our own creation. We call upon policymakers to take immediate action to strengthen enforcement, address existing loopholes, and ensure that vaping products remains a tool for smoking cessation, not a pathway to addiction for young people. Including either NC21 proposed by Jenny Riddel Carpenter MP, or amendment 36 as proposed by Mary Glyndon MP has become a prerequisite for the Bill's future success. Parliament's acknowledgement of the issue and the need for regulatory revisions is appreciated; nonetheless, the implementation timeframe is far too lengthy. To prevent the continued and irresponsible rise in underage vaping, prompt action must be taken to address the actions of negligent importers and retailers. If MPs don't act now, the UK could be sleepwalking into another crisis of their own making that will undoubtedly bring even greater youth and environmental dangers. Greig Fowler is Business Development Director at VPZ Agenda is a column for outside contributors. Contact: agenda@