Creating a Smoke-Free Environment: Recognizing Hangzhou's Outstanding Contributions

According to a report by Hangzhou Daily on June 1st, on May 31st, the World Health Organization awarded the "World No Tobacco Day Prize" to the Hangzhou Municipal Government to commend Hangzhou's outstanding contributions in creating a smoke-free environment, particularly in protecting young people from the harm of tobacco.

On the same day, the World Health Organization's office in China hosted a themed event in Hangzhou called "Youthful and Good, Leave Tobacco Alone".

It has been reported that Hangzhou has passed and modified smoke-free regulations to prohibit smoking (including e-cigarettes) in indoor public places, workplaces, and public transportation to fulfill the commitment to becoming a smoke-free city. Additionally, through various channels of promotion, distribution of smoke-free tool kits, and volunteer advocacy, they ensure the creation of smoke-free environments, with a particular emphasis on the crucial role of young people in implementing smoke-free policies. In 2023, Hangzhou, in collaboration with 14 regulatory departments, intensified enforcement efforts, conducting over 530,000 inspections and issuing fines totaling 987,000 RMB. Particularly during the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, they successfully achieved a smoke-free event.

In response, Martin Taylor, the World Health Organization's representative in China, stated:

Compared to adults, teenagers are more susceptible to the influence of tobacco use and smoking environments. The priority is to protect our next generation from the effects of tobacco and secondhand smoke, so creating smoke-free environments is crucial. Hangzhou has set an example for other cities through proactive legislation and strict enforcement. Hangzhou's experience shows that creating smoke-free environments is feasible and can benefit teenagers in the long term. Hangzhou's efforts in tobacco control have set a benchmark for other cities. It is hoped that more cities can work together with Hangzhou to protect the health of teenagers and all residents.