3 December, 2024
Statement from the European Respiratory Society (ERS) on the results of the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council’s decision to adopt a recommendation in support of smoke- and aerosol-free environments.
The ERS is among a group of health-focused organisations to welcome the landmark vote to adopt a recommendation in support of smoke- and aerosol-free environments. By expanding smoking bans to outdoor public places, the adopted recommendation will improve public health, reduce healthcare costs, and protect the environment across Europe. Novel and emerging products, such as vapes, will also be included in the ban for the first time.
ERS urges all EU Member States to also adopt the recommendation and achieve a tobacco-free generation in Europe by 2040.
Prof. Filippos Filippidis, Chair of the ERS Tobacco Control Committee, noted:
“The adoption of these recommendations is a major step forward for tobacco control policy across the EU. We know that exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosols impacts health. Expanding smoke- and aerosol-free spaces can improve public health. Therefore, we now call on EU Member States to swiftly adopt these measures nationally to ensure safe environments for all.”
Tobacco consumption remains one of the leading causes of preventable illness and premature death in the EU. Learn more about ERS advocacy activities related to tobacco control.