BRUSSELS — Belgium is set to prohibit the sale of single-use electronic cigarettes starting January 1, aiming to address health concerns and environmental issues. This initiative marks a significant step for nations within the European Union.
Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke highlighted that these budget-friendly e-cigarettes have presented a health risk, particularly as they can easily entice teenagers into smoking and dependency on nicotine. In an interview, he remarked, “Disposable e-cigarettes are designed primarily to attract new users.”
Vandenbroucke pointed out the dangers associated with nicotine, reinforcing that it is addictive and detrimental to health. He emphasized, “Nicotine makes you addicted to nicotine. Nicotine is bad for your health. These are facts.”
The health minister also noted that the disposable nature of these products adds to environmental woes due to their plastic, batteries, and electronic components, which contribute to pollution. He further explained that they lead to hazardous waste, highlighting that “chemicals remain in what is discarded.”
Vandenbroucke is particularly concerned about disposable vapes as they lack potential benefits that reusable ones could offer for those attempting to quit smoking. He cited Australia’s recent actions to restrict vape sales significantly, showing a trend that Belgium is now following within the EU.
“We are the first country in Europe to take such action,” Vandenbroucke stated, advocating for stricter tobacco regulations across the 27-nation EU. He urged the European Commission to introduce new measures to refresh and upgrade the current tobacco legislation.
The decision has garnered some level of acceptance even among e-cigarette retailers, particularly when it comes to the environmental impact. Steven Pomeranc, who owns a shop in Brussels known as Vapotheque, expressed concern over the environmental ramifications stating, “When the cigarette is disposed of, the battery is still functional.” He lamented the missed opportunity for recharging, adding, “This situation causes significant pollution.”
While a ban often signals economic setbacks for the industry, Pomeranc is optimistic that the impact will be limited. “We have several alternative options that are easy to use,” he explained. He mentioned a pod system filled with liquid, designed to be compatible with rechargeable e-cigarettes. “Thus, we foresee a shift in clientele toward this new alternative.”
