The launch was attended by a number of vapers around Europe and MEP Peter Liese. Director of the WVA Michael Landl, highlighted the potential of vaping products. “Vaping has the potential to save 19 million lives in Europe. Tomorrow, the Beating Cancer Committee in the European Parliament (BECA) meets to discuss proposals to reduce the harm caused by smoking tobacco. They have the opportunity to make history and save lives IF they back vaping as a tool to beat smoking. Our message to them is clear – choose science and save lives”.
Published on the 25th of June, the draft report on Beating Cancer fails to recognize the potential of vaping in the fight against smoking-induced cancer. The director of the World Vapers Association (WVA) Michael Landl highlighted that the document is an improvement on the European Commission’s draft, which leaves the door open for flavour bans and higher taxes, but by ignoring the potential of vaping products it still misses the mark.
Thankfully the EP report does not put vaping in the same category as tobacco cigarettes, however given the imminent review of the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) and proposals from the European Commission to regulate e-cigarettes like tobacco, “vapers must raise their voices even louder,” said Landl when the draft was released.
The Back Vaping. Beat Smoking campaign mural
To this effect, the Back Vaping. Beat Smoking campaign mural will be on show at key locations around Brussels, including at the European Parliament, the European Commission, the Atomium and the Palace of Justice. After the launch in Brussels, the campaign will visit cities around Europe to encourage vapers and politicians to stand up and take action.
“2021 is a critical year for vaping. We came here today to highlight to MEPs the importance of vaping to fight smoking. We are bringing our message to the EU’s front door, to ensure that every policymaker understands that 19 million lives are on the line. The best way we can beat smoking is to promote vaping as part of public health policies,” concluded Landl.
The graffiti stunt video and an interview with MEP Peter Liese can be accessed here.
New PHE Report Reaffirms That Vaping is a Gateway Out of (Not Into) Smoking
