‘Great day for wildlife’ as disposable vapes set to be banned in England - RSPCA

The RSPCA has declared it a “great day for wildlife” - as reports suggest the UK Government is set to announce a ban on disposable vapes in England.

Disposable vapes and their impact on animals has been a growing concern for the charity's officers on the frontline.

They contain materials and poisonous substances including plastic, lithium and nicotine, all of which can be hazardous to animals.

Between 2020 and 2022, 10,482 calls about litter were made to the charity's emergency line, and it is believed vapes have been contributing to the problem.

In July, the RSPCA backed calls from the Local Government Association, which represents local authorities in England and Wales, for a ban on the sale and manufacture of single use vapes by 2024 - and is now “delighted” by this move from the UK Government.

Harriet Main, RSPCA public affairs manager, said: “Discarded disposable vapes pose a threat to the environment and animals - so this news marks a great day for wildlife right across England. The infrastructure for recycling these vapes just isn't widely available - and too many single-use vapes are simply being tossed away in our communities, putting animals needlessly at risk. Animals could be in danger by ingesting liquid from discarded, disposable vapes; while strewn devices can also impact habitats. Dealing with this is positive for the environment and for animal welfare, and we look forward to working with the UK Government to ensure a ban can be introduced as soon as possible."

New research from Material Focus suggests the number of disposable vapes being discarded each week has increased to five million - with three percent of UK vapers - including eight percent of 16-18 year olds - admitting they drop single-use vapes on the ground.

A survey from the charity - as part of its #VexedAboutVapes campaign - showed 94% of respondents supported a ban on disposable vapes.