The Welsh Government’s decision to ban single-use vapes in Wales from June 1, 2025, has sparked reactions from people in Cardiff. The move aligns with UK Government proposals for England, Scotland, and Wales as part of the Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (Wales) Regulations 2024. The decision follows a consultation where over 27,000 people across the UK provided feedback.
In interviews conducted on the streets of Cardiff, individuals expressed mixed views on the upcoming ban. One man, who had been smoking since his teenage years, welcomed the ban, citing concerns about easy access for young people and the importance of preventing nicotine addiction in adolescents. He supported the UK’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which restricts tobacco sales to individuals born after January 1, 2009.
While vaping has led to a reduction in smoking rates, with 5.6 million adults in Britain currently vaping, the NHS advises caution, stating that vaping is not entirely risk-free. One woman in Cardiff mentioned that the ban could motivate her to quit vaping altogether, acknowledging potential struggles but recognizing the benefits of cessation.
Despite the growing popularity of e-cigarettes, with 6% of adults in Wales using them, there remains a segment of the population unfamiliar with vaping. Another Cardiff resident, unaffected by the ban, viewed it as a positive step, indicating a lack of personal engagement with vaping.
While opinions vary on the ban, the decision reflects ongoing efforts to regulate nicotine products and promote public health. As discussions continue around vaping and smoking cessation, individuals are contemplating the implications of these regulatory measures in Cardiff and beyond.