The European Union’s new targets for a smoke-free future

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 12. 04. 10:28

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The European Commission has welcomed the European Council’s decision to review the recommendations on smoke-free environments. The new guidelines aim to reduce the harmful effects of passive smoking and aerosols, with a particular focus on protecting children and young people. The recommendation is an integral part of the “Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan”, which aims to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use to below 5% by 2040.

Nearly 700,000 people die every year in the European Union from tobacco-related diseases. Smoking is responsible for 27% of all cancers, making it one of the most important health problems. According to 2023 figures, 24% of the European population smokes, which represents a major public health challenge.

An important element of the new recommendation is the extension of smoke-free rules to outdoor areas, including:

Playgrounds,

Health and educational facilities,

Public transport stops.

These steps are not only aimed at avoiding passive smoking, but also at preventing smoking and the use of new tobacco products from becoming accepted by young people. The Commission has highlighted that the aim is to prevent the normalisation of smoking, especially among the new generations.

The new recommendation builds on existing regulations in EU Member States and is implemented with the support of the EU4Health programme. However, implementation is the responsibility of Member States, which must take into account local circumstances and needs.