The UK government has introduced a new nationwide campaign, “Love Your Lungs,” with the aim of educating teenagers about vaping addiction. Using social media influencers like Big Manny and Bodalia, the campaign targets 13- to 18-year-olds on platforms such as YouTube and Instagram to highlight the risks of nicotine dependence.
Long-term vaping study and youth campaign
Alongside the campaign, the government is funding a £62 million, 10-year study tracking 100,000 young people aged 8 to 18. Led by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the study will analyze the long-term health effects of vaping, gathering data on well-being and behavioral patterns.
Officials acknowledge that while vaping can help smokers quit, its long-term effects on youth remain unclear. Public health experts emphasize the importance of scientific research to provide accurate information for young people, parents, and policymakers. Organizations like Asthma and Lung UK and Action on Smoking and Health have been stressing the need for evidence-based regulations, as vaping may carry long-term risks, despite being less harmful than smoking.
A shocking increase in the circulation of illicit vapes
Meanwhile, with all the upcoming restrictions, such as the infamous ban on disposable vapes, experts are concerned about a likely increase in the circulation of illicit vapes. Infact, a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request from 108 local councils conducted by Vape Club, highlighted the growing black market for illegal vapes.
In 2024 alone, UK authorities confiscated over £9 million worth of illegal vapes, averaging two seizures per minute—a 44% increase from the previous year. In fact, since 2020, total illegal vape seizures have reached £21 million, yet enforcement remains inconsistent, with only one in ten offenders facing fines or penalties.
More specifically the FOI report revealed that Essex County Council, Heathrow, and Glasgow airports accounted for over a third of all UK vape seizures. Fines issued for illegal vape sales in 2024 totaled just £48,062—£20,000 lower than the previous year. While retail closures doubled, with 108 shops shut down due to illegal vape sales.
Vape Club Director Dan Marchant, argued that weak penalties and poor enforcement allow the illicit market to thrive. To this effect, he has been advocating for a Vape Retailer and Distributor Licensing framework, ensuring funds are allocated to border control and Trading Standards to effectively combat illegal vape imports and sales.
Disparities in Smokefree progress among regions
Another surey by Vape Club revealed that only 25% of local UK authorities are expected to meet the target on time. Areas such as Bromsgrove, Adur, and Richmond-upon-Thames are projected to become smokefree by 2025, joining places like St Albans and South Staffordshire, which have already reached the milestone.
Cities including Manchester, Cardiff, and Edinburgh are expected to miss the 2030 deadline, with projections pushing their smokefree status to 2032. Meanwhile, Birmingham faces a shocking 43-year delay, while Nottingham and Blackpool are 24 years behind schedule, highlighting the need for stronger intervention.
The science on the role of vaping
Marchant highlighted that ultimately, negative perceptions of vaping may hinder smoking cessation efforts. He stressed the importance of fact-based education on vaping’s role in harm reduction to prevent smokers from reverting to cigarettes and ensure the UK stays on track toward a smokefree future.
