Switzerland's Federal Councils have moved to prohibit disposable electronic cigarettes, widely known as "Puff Bars," due to their detrimental environmental and health impacts. Following the National Council's clear approval of a motion by Green Party member Christophe Clivaz in June 2024, the Council of States (Ständerat) has now also voted in favor, with 19 to 11 votes and 3 abstentions. Importantly, rechargeable and refillable e-cigarettes will be exempt from this ban.
The primary justifications for the ban are concerns over youth appeal and environmental waste. The responsible parliamentary committee highlighted that these products, with their relatively low prices, attractive flavors, and appealing designs, primarily target young people, exposing them to a high risk of nicotine addiction. Environmental concerns were also significant, with Flavia Wasserfallen (SP/BE) noting during the debate that nine out of ten "Puffs" are improperly disposed of. Teachers also reported issues with students as young as 12 using these devices. Despite the Federal Council initially opposing the motion, it is now tasked with drafting the necessary legislative changes to implement the ban. Imports of disposable vapes have surged since their 2020 market introduction, with nearly 30% annual growth and ten million units imported in 2022.
