International vape brand RELX has called on policymakers to recognise the harm reduction benefits of e-cigarettes and seek a global approach to vaping policy.
The company unveiled its recommendations at the third Vape Live event, which took place last week.
The six-part plan – which comes after the UKVIA’s celebrated ‘Blueprint for Better Regulation’ – detailed measures that could help encourage adult smokers to quit.
Key points of the roadmap include:
- Allowing ‘substantiated’ switching messages to be placed on the packaging and inserts of vaping products
- Supporting a targeted campaign that informs smokers of the benefits of moving from cigarettes to vaping
- Differentiating between vaping and smoking in public places
- Acknowledging the role of flavoured e-liquids in successful quitting attempts
Robert Naouss, External Affairs Director for RELX International MENA & Europe, said that we should ‘look seriously at the huge potential harm reduction benefits’ of a more unified regulatory approach.
He said:
“Across the world in 2019, more than 8 million smokers passed away prematurely from smoking cigarettes, and not from nicotine itself.
“Regulators around the world are scrambling to keep up with the pace of change, balancing the need for innovation and other societal benefits with concerns around safety is a difficult task.
“This is where novel nicotine products such as e-vapor have a role to play in public health.”
Robert Naouss, RELX International
John Dunne, Director General of the UKVIA, stressed that ‘society needs the right regulation’ if we are to support smokers on their journey to a healthier lifestyle.
He said:
“It is important to challenge misconceptions and misinformation while opening minds to the science, technology and design which have been made available to adult smokers looking for better alternatives.
“Such new products have enormous potential should they receive the support needed from governments and regulatory bodies.”
John Dunne, UKVIA
Source: UKVIA
