Ban on single-use vapes needed to reduce damage to the environment – Christopher O’Sullivan TD

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Climate Action, Biodiversity and Environment Christopher O’Sullivan TD has called for a ban on single-use vapes to reduce their negative impact on the environment.  

The Cork South-West TD said all e-cigarettes contain a lithium battery which is toxic and harmful to the environment, and they also comprise a cartridge containing the e-liquid, an atomizer which heats the e-liquid to create the aerosol, and a mouthpiece.   

Speaking ahead of a Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party pre-budget meeting Deputy O’Sullivan said: “Disposable vapes are not only terrible for public health, but they are also toxic for the environment. 

“They are littered indiscriminately along every roadside across the country. These single-use vapes are not only an eye-sore, the plastics contained in them take many years to break down, they end up in our watercourses and in the sea. They are becoming a big problem for wildlife.  

“We need to nip this in the bud early. They’re still a new phenomenon so the earlier we take measures the less damage that will be caused to the environment. 

“My party colleague, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly, has drafted new laws prohibiting the sale of nicotine-inhaling products to anyone under 18 years. Advertisements for e-cigarettes will be banned near schools and on public transport and vape vending machines will also be prohibited.  

“While disposable vapes are not covered in this new legislation the Minister has said he is looking at the issue. I would encourage him to do so as quickly as possible.”