France has officially banned disposable e-cigarettes, also known as “puffs,” as part of its broader effort to combat youth vaping and reduce environmental waste. The ban, which goes into effect in early 2024, targets the brightly colored, single-use devices that have become increasingly popular among teenagers.
The French government highlighted concerns over the health risks associated with vaping among young people, as well as the environmental impact of discarded e-cigarettes, which often end up in landfills due to non-recyclable components.
Addressing a Growing Public Health Issue
French Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne said, “The rise of disposable e-cigarettes is alarming, particularly among our youth. This ban is a necessary step to protect public health and our environment.”
France’s move aligns with growing global scrutiny of vaping products, particularly those marketed to young audiences. While industry groups have criticized the ban as overly restrictive, health advocates have praised the measure as a proactive step in curbing nicotine addiction among adolescents.
Retailers have been given until March 2025 to phase out their inventory, and the government is planning educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping.
