The European Commission has recommended that member states extend smoking bans to outdoor areas, including for electronic cigarettes and nicotine-free products, as part of its efforts to create smoke- and aerosol-free environments. The proposal broadens the scope of previous rules and seeks to tackle the risks posed by aerosols and tobacco. Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides emphasized the importance of preventing diseases by addressing primary risk factors such as tobacco use. The Commission aims to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols, which is expected to have positive impacts on health by decreasing morbidity and mortality associated with smoking and emerging products like vapes.
To achieve this goal, the Commission is proposing the clearance of public spaces of all aerosols, including products that do not contain nicotine such as electronic cigarettes. The move reflects growing concerns over the health risks posed by new tobacco products and the potential marketing towards young people. Smoking bans would be extended to various outdoor venues, including service establishments, public transport hubs, workplaces, hospitals, care homes, recreational areas where children are present, and educational premises. The aim is to protect individuals from second-hand smoke and encourage current smokers to quit, with the ultimate goal of creating a tobacco-free generation by 2040.
The guidelines are part of the Commission’s Beating Cancer Plan, which aims to reduce tobacco use by 30% by 2025 and see the share of EU population smoking reduced to just 5%. While the guidelines are not legally binding, they provide a framework for member states to follow as part of broader efforts to combat tobacco-related cancer. Implementation of similar guidelines in 2009-2012 already resulted in a decrease in exposure to second-hand smoke. The proposal seeks to improve public health by tackling tobacco use, which is a leading risk factor for various diseases including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases.
Health Commissioner Kyriakides highlighted the importance of creating smoke- and aerosol-free environments, stating that there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke. The extended smoking bans to outdoor areas are intended to protect individuals, especially children, from the harmful effects of tobacco and aerosols. By targeting a wide range of public spaces and venues, the Commission aims to reduce tobacco use and exposure, ultimately contributing to improved public health outcomes. The proposal aligns with the Commission’s broader efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases through environmental changes and policy measures.
