The European Union has allowed smoke-free zones to be extended to outdoor areas, and the new measures will also apply to vapes and heated tobacco products. The implementation of this recommendation will be up to all member States.
EU Council Adopts Smokefree Zone Expansion Proposal
The European Union has approved a recommendation for smoke-free and aerosol-free environments that aim to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols and achieve a smoke-free generation in Europe by 2040, in line with the European Plan against Cancer.
This recommendation encourages the EU to expand its existing second-hand smoke protection to include important outdoor areas such as playgrounds and restaurant terraces. The new measures will also apply to new tobacco products (HTP) such as vapes and heated tobacco.
Vapes and HTP products under control
The revised proposal expands smoke-free areas to include exterior and semi-open areas such as rooftops, balconies, terraces, and related services such as bars, restaurants, and cafes. Other areas covered include outdoor areas, hospitals and office Spaces, as well as public children’s playgrounds, amusement parks, swimming pools and zoos.
In addition, China and the EU will be subject to further controls on vapes and heated tobacco products in some public places, public transport and workplaces. (HTP) waiting for new tobacco products.
Within five years of the adoption of the recommendation. The Committee is expected to report on its progress.
Peter Takacs, Hungary’s health minister, said
The top priority of the Hungarian presidency is the fight against non-communicable diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Today’s recommendations will also help prevent these diseases by reducing exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols, especially for children and young people.”
Since the EU does not have the power to impose such restrictions, implementation will largely depend on the thinking of individual member governments.
