Vaping in Luxembourg: new regulations, health risks and impact on nature
Pablo Merchán Montes, Unsplash
Luxembourg's Ministries of Health and Environment have clarified a parliamentary enquiry by MP Gerard Schockmel about vaping, its consequences and environmental impact. The country does not yet have accurate data on the number of e-cigarettes sold, but from 1 April 2025, all vapes must have excise labels. This will allow sales volumes to be tracked through a record of tax stamps ordered. Shops selling e-cigarettes are required to register with Customs and Excise in advance.
The Ministry of Health reminds that vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking. The harms of e-cigarettes have not yet been fully studied, but serious risks have already been identified. Consumption of vape liquids can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, which eventually leads to lung inflammation. Studies show that inhaling the propylene glycol and glycerin in the liquids can trigger chronic respiratory diseases with prolonged use. In addition, the nicotine in most vapes negatively affects the cardiovascular system, slowing brain development in adolescents and increasing the risk of heart attacks. In 2019, a wave of e-cigarette poisonings was recorded in the United States, which led to increased control over their distribution.
In addition to health risks, vape devices pose a serious threat to the environment. According to the law of 9 June 2022, e-cigarettes should be disposed of as electrical waste, but in practice this is rarely done. Improper disposal of disposable vape devices leads to contamination of soil and water bodies with toxic substances contained in the batteries and plastic cases of the devices. As the plastic decomposes, it turns into microparticles that have already been found in the human body. Lithium batteries can ignite if damaged, creating a fire hazard.
Luxembourg continues to strengthen its control over vaping by introducing new regulatory measures. Labelling and tax obligations should reduce illegal supply and strengthen oversight of product quality. However, the long-term health effects of vaping remain the subject of scientific research, and its popularity among young people is a concern for the authorities.
