WATCH: What people in Inverness think of potential disposable vape ban

We asked people in Inverness what they think of the Scottish Government considering banning disposable vapes – here's what they had to say.

The Scottish Government announced in its Programme for Government on September 5 that it will "take action to reduce vaping among non-smokers and young people and to tackle the environmental impact of single-use vapes, including consulting on a proposal to ban their sale and other appropriate measures."

Last month, an Inverness Courier investigation into underage vaping exposed how accessible vapes were for teenagers. It is illegal to sell vapes to people under 18.

As well as attracting many underage users, recent research by Material Focus shows that five million disposable vapes are thrown away weekly in the UK.

Environmental campaigners have also spoken out about the potential ban.

Catherine Gemmell, conservation officer at the Marine Conservation Society, said: “So many of our volunteers are finding disposable vapes on litter picks both inland and at the beach, which sadly pose a risk to the marine environment and the life within it. Therefore, we’re delighted that Scottish Government has committed to a consultation for an outright ban on disposable vapes.”

Laura Young, Youth Ocean Network member at the Marine Conservation Society, said: “This is a very welcome step in the right direction to consult on a ban of single-use disposable vapes. However, we must continue to raise awareness and push for action as this is only the beginning of a long road to any potential legislation change to protect our environment, and the health of young people.”

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