Businesses selling single-use vapes are being warned of the impending ban by Pembrokeshire County Council.

Anyone selling single-use vapes is reminded that from 1st June 2025 it will be illegal to do so.

It will also be illegal to offer to sell or have in your possession for sale all single-use or ‘disposable’ vapes – whether online or in a shop and if they contain nicotine or not.

Businesses will have until the 1st June 2025 to sell any remaining stock and prepare for the ban coming in to force.

Reusable vapes, those that can be recharged and refilled, are not affected by the ban.

The UK Government says it is introducing the ban as part of its commitment to tackle environmental concerns and the rise in young people taking up vaping.

Single use vapes are typically discarded as general waste or littered, rather than recycled. Even those that are sent to recycling facilities, the process of recycling is slow and difficult.

Littering spoils communities, introduces harmful substances into the soil, rivers and streams, and causes harm to biodiversity.

The lithium ion batteries used can also present a fire risk.

Figures show that the number of children and young people taking up vaping continues to rise and disposable vapes are the product of choice for most children who vape. It is hoped the ban will curb the rise of young people taking up vaping.

For all ages the long term health impacts of vaping are unknown, although withdrawal symptoms from nicotine addiction is known to cause anxiety, trouble concentrating and headaches.

Retailers are reminded it is illegal to sell nicotine vapes to anyone under 18 years of age. It is also an offence for an adult to buy a nicotine vape on behalf of someone under 18.

For more information visit the UK Government website.