Councils in England and Wales join calls for ban on disposable vapes

Vapes displayed in a shop in London’s Oxford Street. There are concerns their colourful packaging and flavours appeal to children. Photograph: Antonio Olmos/The Observer

Councils are joining paediatricians in calling for a ban on disposable vapes owing to the environmental damage they cause and the soaring number of young people taking up the addictive products.

The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, said urgent action was needed to save taxpayers’ money – as single-use e-cigarettes are costly to recycle without going through special treatment – protect the planet and keep children safe.