On November 3, the European Council announced that it has approved a proposal for a smoke and aerosol-free environment as part of the European Cancer Plan, aiming to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosols. The goal is to achieve a smoke-free generation in Europe by 2040.
The proposal encourages EU countries to expand their existing second-hand smoke protection measures to include major outdoor areas such as playgrounds and restaurant terraces. The new measures will also apply to new tobacco products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTP).
The revised proposal expands the smoke-free areas to include outdoor and semi-open areas such as rooftops, balconies, terraces, as well as related service venues like bars, restaurants, and cafes. Other areas involved include bus stops, airports, outdoor areas related to workplaces, hospitals, and nursing homes, as well as public children's playgrounds, amusement parks, swimming pools, and zoos.
In addition, EU countries will be encouraged to further restrict the use of new tobacco products such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs) in certain public places, public transportation, and workplaces.
The committee is expected to report on the progress of implementing the proposal within five years after its adoption.
"The fight against non-communicable diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease, is a priority for the Hungarian presidency. Today's recommendation will help prevent such diseases by reducing the likelihood of exposure to second-hand smoke and aerosols, particularly among children and young people," Péter Takács, Hungarian Secretary of State for Health said.
According to reports, the specific implementation of such restrictions will depend entirely on the willingness of the authorities in each member state as the EU lacks the authority to enforce them.
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