Jue, Jun 13th 2024
Switzerland’s National Council advances legislation to prohibit the sale of electronic disposable cigarettes, citing environmental and health concerns.
National Council votes to ban disposable electronic cigarettes in Switzerland. On Wednesday, the large chamber approved a motion by Vaud Green National Councillor Christophe Clivaz with 122 votes to 63 and four abstentions.
The Federal Council is now tasked with amending the Federal Act on Tobacco Products and Electronic Cigarettes to ban the sale of “puff bars” in Switzerland.
“Puff bars” appeal to young people with their diverse flavors and vibrant colors, making them increasingly popular. In 2022, 10 million units were imported. Clivaz emphasized their environmental impact, noting that these disposable devices often end up polluting lakes, meadows, and waste systems, incurring significant cleanup costs. Health experts are also alarmed by their potential for addiction and the insufficient research on their health effects.
Despite Federal Councillor Elisabeth Baume-Schneider’s opposition, deeming the ban premature, the Council of States will now decide on the future of these popular devices.
©Keystone/SDA
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