Fife councillors have called on the Scottish Government to introduce a ban on disposable vapes as soon as possible.
Members said the sweet flavours on offer, along with coloured packaging and low prices, make vaping attractive to children.
They also highlighted the environmental impact of the smoking alternatives, which are often left littering the streets.
SNP councillor Bailey-Lee Robb said: “It’s our moral obligation to protect our young people and the environment.
“It’s time for us to tackle this issue head on.”
Fife Council is one of 15 local authorities to call for a national ban on the sale of disposable vapes.
First Minister Humza Yousaf has said the Scottish Government is considering the issue.
‘Marketed as a hobby and something fun’
The Fife call follows a motion by Mr Robb to the full council, unanimously backed by members.
He pointed out the vapes often come in flavours designed to appeal to children.
And he added: “It’s now a common trend for our teenagers to match the vapes with their outfits.
“In the age of social media, we have TikTok influencers showcasing their vape collections and teaching our young people how to do their best vaping tricks.
“It’s being marketed as a hobby and something fun.”
The Cowdenbeath councillor said the price of the devices is also an issue.
A pack of 20 cigarettes costs around £12, yet a disposable vape can be as little as £3.20.
More than 600 disposable vapes collected from Fife streets
Mr Robb pointed to a Courier investigation which found children as young as P3 had been caught with vapes in school.
“It’s consistently reported that very little is known about the health impact of vapes,” he said.
“Yet our young people are turning to these devices at an alarming rate.
“I feel these may be our next epidemic.”
He added: “Last month alone our Fife Street Champions collected 664 of these disposable vapes.
“The marketing of these vapes actively encourages them to be opened, used and thrown away with no consideration for the environment.”
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