Ara City Radio

Belgium has become the first EU country to ban the sale of disposable vapes, citing health and environmental concerns. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke emphasized that inexpensive vapes often lure teenagers into nicotine addiction, saying, “Nicotine makes you addicted. Nicotine is bad for your health. These are facts.” He also highlighted the environmental burden of disposable vapes, which generate plastic waste, hazardous chemicals, and unrecyclable batteries. Unlike reusable vapes, which can help smokers quit, disposables were targeted for their addictive nature and environmental harm. Belgium’s move aligns with global trends; earlier this year, Australia implemented some of the world’s strictest vaping restrictions. Belgium’s decision has garnered some support, even among vape retailers. A shop owner noted, “The batteries in disposables still work after use, but can’t be recharged, leading to significant pollution.” While the ban might seem like a financial blow to the industry, retailers are optimist