Some English pubs are using electronic cigarettes to get around the country's smoking ban, the Telegraph reported Sept. 24.

The ban, which went into effect July 1,  prohibits smokers from lighting up in enclosed public places like pubs and clubs. However, the ban does not extend to electronic cigarettes, and after seeing a decline in sales, some pubs are taking advantage of the loophole by selling electronic cigarettes to draw clients back.

"E-cigarettes" are made of long stainless steel tubes with chambers to hold replaceable cartridges filled with various concentrations and flavors of liquid nicotine. They are powered by a rechargeable battery, and because the vapor produced is odorless and doesn't contain tar of carbon monoxide, the Electronic Cigarette Company says their products don't put people at risk for second-hand smoke inhalation. 

"While we are completely supportive of the smoking ban we are still very conscious of the needs of our smoking customers," said Chris Giles, landlord of the Butler's Arms, a pub that is selling electronic cigarettes to customers.