Belgium Will Ban sales of Disposable e-Cigarettes in a First for the EU

Belgium will become the first European Union country to ban the sale of disposable e-cigarettes, effective January 1. The decision is based on both health and environmental concerns. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke cited the addictive nature of nicotine and the growing appeal of disposable e-cigarettes to teenagers as key health risks.

Additionally, the disposable devices contribute to environmental pollution through hazardous waste, including plastic and battery components. Belgium's move highlights the need for updated EU tobacco regulations, with a focus on reducing harm while promoting alternatives, such as reusable e-cigarettes that could support smoking cessation efforts. Read more from ABC here.