Belgium will ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes starting January 1, 2025. This is a pioneering move in Europe to safeguard public health and reduce electronic waste.
AFP reported on Monday that Belgian officials have exempted rechargeable e-cigarettes from the ban, citing their potential benefits for those trying to quit smoking. The country will also outlaw all forms of smoking within 10 meters (33 feet) of playgrounds, sports venues, and health and educational facilities beginning next year. Violators could face fines of up to €8,000 (approximately $8,500), depending on the severity of the offense.
Other European nations are following suit with similar regulations. The UK plans to prohibit disposable e-cigarette sales starting June 2025, while France has secured European Union approval to draft its legislation. Once implemented, French law could impose fines of up to €100,000 (approximately $106,000) for illegal production, sale, or distribution of disposable e-cigarettes.
Disposable e-cigarettes are sold at half the price of traditional cigarettes, with some devices allowing up to 9,000 puffs per device. This is equivalent to smoking 300 conventional cigarettes. EU data from last year revealed that these products are particularly popular among 15- to 24-year-olds. Health authorities in Belgium and France argue that inhaling nicotine through disposable e-cigarettes not only harms adolescent brain development but may also lead to the use of other drugs. Even nicotine-free versions raise concerns, as the heating process used to vaporize the liquid may produce harmful compounds.
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