People in the Isle of Man are being invited to share their views on a proposal to ban disposable vapes that contain plastic.
A six-week consultation has been launched by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture on its plan to outlaw the sale and distribution of the products.
Disposable vapes have a short life span and are “harmful to the environment”.
Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: “Not only are precious resources wasted in their manufacture and disposal, but far too many are being carelessly discarded – littering our communities and polluting our Biosphere.
“Banning this product is a clear and obvious way that we can take responsibility in shaping an environment we can be proud of in line with the Island Plan.”
Disposable Vape Ban
It is estimated that around five million disposable vapes are thrown away each week in the UK, which is equivalent to the lithium batteries of 5,000 electric vehicles each year.
The batteries are susceptible to damage and can ignite if punctured, crushed, heated or discharged of incorrectly, which is a significant fire hazard for bin lorries and at the Island’s Energy for Waste Plant.
The UK Government has already announced a ban on the products in England and the Scottish and Welsh Governments have also confirmed they will follow suit.
People are encouraged to engage with the consultation on the draft regulations by visiting consult.gov.im before November 11.
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