Surge in campus use prompts Scottish charity to call for ban on disposable vapes

According to a report by The New York Times, Sheila Duffy, the CEO of the Scottish health charity ASH Scotland, believes that disposable e-cigarettes have become the main reason for the surge in the use of such products in schools. They argue that these products target the youth market, using bright colors and appealing flavors reminiscent of carbonated drinks, and are marketed as fashion statements. The government plans to restrict the sale of disposable e-cigarettes.

According to a report from The New York Times on September 17, Sheila Duffy stated that disposable e-cigarettes have become the primary cause of the increase in the use of such products in schools. 

She said, "They are clearly targeting the youth market, with colors that are often bright, and young people buy them to match their outfits as a fashion statement. The flavors of the e-liquids are clearly based on carbonated drinks, candies, and junk food, and are marketed accordingly." 

"The prices are also shocking; you can buy them for less than £5, and I've seen them priced as low as £1.99. This is a disaster in terms of youth usage and addiction, with 69% of these devices being used by young people, and they are currently not being used by adults," said Sheila Duffy. 

Earlier this month, in the first government work plan released by Scottish Health Minister Humza Yousaf, a plan was proposed to take action next year to reduce the use of e-cigarettes among children and teenagers. In his speech to the Scottish Parliament, he said, "The government will also consult on restricting the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, including considering a complete ban. Other countries have already begun to implement similar bans. Australia has banned all disposable e-cigarettes this year, and a prescription is now required to purchase the remaining legal products, which must be packaged as medicines. Additionally, all advertising targeting e-cigarette devices has been completely banned." 

However, Marcus Saxton, CEO of Totally Wicked Group and chairman of the Independent British E-Cigarette Trade Association, does not believe that a complete ban is the best solution. He said, "Any reputable retailer would not sell to anyone under 18. They have age verification protocols in place for online and physical stores, including third-party 'mystery shopping' to ensure compliance with regulations." He also stated that no leading brand has used overly appealing products, and the industry is very willing to adopt different flavor naming rules.