SUPERDRUG is banning the sale of disposable vapes, it was announced today.
The high street health and beauty retailer will no longer stock any single-use brands, including Vuse GO and Flavaah Bars.
GettySuperdrug is banning the sale of disposable vapes[/caption]
It is not clear when the new rules will come into force, but they will apply to all stores in the UK and Ireland.
Superdrug blamed the fact that nearly five million single-use e-cigarettes are disposed of every week in Britain.
Lucy Morton-Channon, head of ESG, said: “The rate that consumers are using single-use vapes and discarding them is worrying and alarming for the environment.
“Many of these single-use vapes contain lithium batteries, which should be disposed of responsibly but many end up in landfill, and incorrect battery disposal can lead to a risk of fires.
“The lasting effects that single use vapes are having on the environment needs to be addressed, and I am pleased that we’ve decided to remove them from all stores.”
Healthcare director Ghada Beal, added: “It’s our responsibility at Superdrug to provide the best choice for consumers who want alternatives to cigarettes whether that’s smoking cessation products or vaping options.
“We need to be responsible about the growing trend in disposable vapes among young people, and the lasting effect on the environment.”
The government is reportedly planning to ban all throw-away vapes in England to stop children getting addicted.
The devices, sold in bright colours and sickly-sweet flavours, are seen as encouraging kids to smoke.