
France introduces ban on smoking at beaches, parks and schools, promoting health and cleaner environments for all.
France to ban smoking on beaches, parks and near schools
The French government has announced a new ban on smoking in outdoor areas where children may be present, including beaches, parks, public gardens, outside schools, bus stops and sports venues. The ban, set to take effect on 1 July, aims to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.
Health and family minister Catherine Vautrin expressed the importance of creating smoke-free environments for children, stating that "tobacco must disappear where there are children." She emphasized that the freedom of children to breathe fresh air should take precedence over the freedom to smoke. The ban will not apply to outdoor cafe terraces, but individuals caught breaking the rules could face a fine of €135.
While electronic cigarettes are currently exempt from the ban, Vautrin is working to introduce regulations on nicotine levels in these products. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to reduce smoking rates in France, with statistics showing a decline in daily smokers to the lowest percentage ever recorded.
Despite previous delays in implementing widespread bans on smoking in outdoor public spaces, many municipalities in France have already voluntarily adopted smoke-free policies. A recent survey by the cancer association La Ligue Contre le Cancer revealed strong public support for such measures, with nearly 80% of French people in favor of banning smoking in places like beaches, parks and terraces.
By Laura Gozzi, BBC News
#france, #smoking, #ban, #health, #children
Saturday 31st May 2025