The European Commission has proposed new guidelines to extend smoking bans to outdoor areas, including for electronic cigarettes and nicotine-free products. The aim of the proposal is to create smoke- and aerosol-free environments to reduce the health risks associated with tobacco and emerging products. Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides emphasized the importance of tackling primary risk factors such as tobacco, which is linked to various diseases including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung disease. The revised Recommendation seeks to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols, leading to positive impacts on public health by decreasing morbidity and mortality.
The proposal includes a broad range of outdoor areas that would become smoke-free under the new guidelines. This encompasses outdoor venues associated with service establishments like restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as public transport hubs, workplaces, hospitals, care homes, recreational areas, and educational premises. Outdoor or semi-outdoor spaces such as rooftops, balconies, porches, and patios would fall under the smoking bans, reflecting concerns over the health risks posed by new tobacco products like electronic cigarettes. The Commission aims to protect individuals from second-hand smoke as well as to encourage current smokers to quit in order to achieve a “tobacco-free generation” by 2040.
The guidelines are part of the Commission’s Beating Cancer Plan, which also includes targets to cut tobacco use by 30% by 2025 and reduce the share of the EU population smoking 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. The Commission highlights the impact of previous recommendations implemented in 2009-2012, which saw a decrease in exposure to second-hand smoke. The move to extend smoking bans to outdoor areas represents a significant step towards creating healthier environments and reducing the prevalence of tobacco-related diseases.
The proposal takes into account the evolving landscape of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes and other alternatives that may still pose health risks. By including these products in the smoking bans, the Commission aims to address concerns over the marketing of flavored products to young people and children. The inclusion of outdoor venues associated with various establishments and institutions reflects a comprehensive approach to reducing exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols in public spaces. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, such as children and individuals in healthcare and educational settings, from the harmful effects of tobacco.
Overall, the European Commission’s proposal to extend smoking bans to outdoor areas represents a proactive effort to create smoke- and aerosol-free environments and reduce the health risks associated with tobacco and emerging products. The inclusion of electronic cigarettes and nicotine-free products in the smoking bans reflects an awareness of the evolving landscape of tobacco use and the need to address emerging health concerns. By setting ambitious targets to achieve a “tobacco-free generation” by 2040 and reduce tobacco use across the EU, the Commission aims to make significant progress in combating tobacco-related diseases and promoting public health. While the guidelines are not binding, they provide a framework for member states to follow as part of broader efforts to curb tobacco-related cancer and improve overall health outcomes.
