Read articles from United Kingdom

January 07, 2026 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

VPZ, the UK’s largest specialist vape retailer dedicated to harm reduction and responsible vaping, has urged MPs returning from their Christmas recess holidays to prioritise the Tobacco and Vapes Bill as one of their first priorities of the New Year. As a start, it says it wants the politicians to confirm a date for its Report Stage as soon as possible.

January 07, 2026 by bbc.com

Schools are struggling with vaping issues, feeling isolated in the battle against student addiction. Teachers report installing vape detectors, deploying extra staff, and altering school grounds to curb vaping. Some students have ended up in hospitals due to spiked vapes. Schools face financial strain and disrupted learning environments. Efforts to tackle vaping include educating students and seeking government support. The World Health Organisation warns of a youth vaping epidemic, with children being nine times more likely to vape than adults. Schools advocate for clearer guidance, parental support, and stricter measures to address the problem. Legislators are urged to act swiftly to prevent long-term consequences of youth vaping.

January 06, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Government officials, in correspondence with 20isPlenty campaigners, acknowledge that nicotine pouches are safer than smoking and a harm reduction tool but warn about their high nicotine content. The campaigners advocate for a 20mg strength cap, strong age limits, and avoiding blanket restrictions. Pouches will be a separate category under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill with restrictions on under-18 sales. The government plans consultations on flavors and ingredients, commissions more research, and aims for evidence-based policy. Campaigners push for a 20mg cap, strict age limits, and enforcement to prevent unintended consequences. The government, while recognizing lower risks, emphasizes concerns about nicotine addiction and plans for further research and regulations.

January 05, 2026 by theguardian.com

Vaping has surpassed smoking in the UK, with concerns rising about its addictive nature. While less harmful than smoking due to lack of combustion, vaping still poses risks, especially for young people. Quitting vaping involves addressing both physical and behavioral components of addiction, with support options such as text messages, medications, and therapy showing promise. To quit successfully, it's crucial to identify triggers, reduce gradually, set limits, consider lower nicotine products, change flavors, manage cravings, seek professional help, and build a support system. For young people, avoiding vaping altogether is advised, with understanding and tailored support essential for cessation.

January 05, 2026 by aol.com

The rising use of cannabis vapes, containing THC, in Bradford poses a threat to youth. Despite being illegal for recreational use, these products were found on sale in the area. A recent raid discovered vapes with pure cannabis at a local off-licence. Concerns were raised about youths being hospitalized due to vaping, as they find it appealing for being odorless and discreet. Some vapes even contained Spice. Authorities discussed the issue during a licensing meeting and emphasized the dangers, including potential overdoses. A shop linked to such activities had its alcohol license revoked. Drug charity Forward Leeds warned about the risks of consuming THC through vaping.

December 22, 2025 by theguardian.com

A survey revealed 1 in 8 teenagers aged 14-17 have used nicotine pouches, raising concerns about addiction. Although pouches don’t increase cancer risk, there are worries about nicotine dependence and oral health issues. Most teens obtain them from friends or stores without age restrictions. The UK plans to tighten regulations on sales to minors and decrease appeal through packaging and flavors. Notable brands include Velo, Nordic Spirit, and Zyn, leading to increased warnings from health experts about nicotine's heart and vascular toxicity. While some view pouches as less harmful than cigarettes or vapes, regulations aim to prevent youth addiction. The tobacco and vapes bill will address underage sales to safeguard public health.

December 22, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

The UK's crackdown on youth vaping may impact older adults who rely on e-cigarettes to quit smoking. Research shows over-55s use vaping for cigarette cessation but the Tobacco and Vapes Bill could hinder their access to vaping tools. In a survey, 87% of adults over 55 started vaping to quit smoking, compared to 49% in 45-54 age group and 18% among 18-24 year olds. Older vapers report improved wellbeing and health benefits post-switch, emphasizing their serious approach to quitting. Advocates call for tailored protections, not total bans, to ensure older adults can access accurate information and make informed choices.

December 19, 2025 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) submitted a detailed, evidence-based response to the UK government’s Tobacco & Vapes Bill, emphasizing that regulation should support vaping as a tool for harm reduction rather than make quitting tobacco harder. They advocate for a simple, enforceable product-registration system, robust testing and manufacturing standards aligned with international best practices, and clear rules protecting adult access to flavors and products that help them quit smoking. UKVIA also stressed that enforcement should target illicit sellers and non-compliant imports, not responsible, compliant companies.

December 18, 2025 by impakter.com

Disposable vapes pose environmental and health risks due to improper disposal and complex recycling requirements. With millions discarded annually, fires and pollution increase. Most users do not recycle, missing the chance to repurpose valuable materials like lithium batteries. Vapes contribute to global e-waste issues, generating plastic and electronic waste and leaching toxins into the environment. Some vape companies falsely claim eco-friendliness, contributing to the problem. Countries like India, Brazil, and the UK are banning disposable vapes to reduce their impact. More research and awareness are required to address this growing issue effectively.

December 17, 2025 by independent.co.uk

Nicotine pouches, a new smoking cessation trend, are tobacco-free sachets with nicotine. Marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking and vaping, they aren't as regulated as nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) and can be easily bought. Despite being less addictive than cigarettes, some pouches contain high nicotine levels and other chemicals. They have side effects like nausea and headaches, impacting oral health in the long term. Not regulated as medicines, they lack strict testing for safety and efficacy. The UK plans to regulate pouch sales to over-18s only, banning ads. While popular, their potential risks warrant caution, suggesting regulated NRTs may be a safer choice for quitting smoking.