Belgium and Milan Take Strong Action Against Smoking and Vaping in Europe

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In recent weeks, two European cities have made bold decisions to tackle smoking and vaping. Belgium has become the first EU country to ban disposable vapes, while Milan, Italy, has introduced a ban on outdoor smoking in public spaces. These actions highlight the growing concern in Europe over smoking, vaping, and the impact they have on health and the environment.

Belgium’s Ban on Disposable Vapes

Belgium’s move to ban disposable vapes is a significant step in its fight against smoking and vaping, especially among young people. The ban, which took effect this month, makes Belgium the first EU country to take such a measure. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke has been outspoken about the decision, calling disposable vapes “extremely harmful.” He also pointed to the environmental damage caused by these non-reusable products, which often contain dangerous chemicals.

As reported by The Guardian, Vandenbroucke described disposable vapes as products designed to “hook a new generation on nicotine.” The environmental issue surrounding these products has also drawn attention, as the waste from non-reusable vapes is filled with harmful chemicals that can damage ecosystems. The Guardian further emphasizes that Belgium is targeting these harmful products as part of a wider effort to decrease smoking rates and prevent a new generation from becoming addicted to nicotine.

While reusable vape systems are not part of the ban, Belgium has set a goal to reduce new smokers to near zero by 2040. To achieve this, the country plans to introduce more policies that make smoking less common and more socially unacceptable.

Belgium’s Ongoing Efforts to Reduce Smoking

Belgium has already taken steps to reduce smoking. Smoking is banned in places like playgrounds, zoos, sports fields, and theme parks. Starting in April 2025, tobacco products will no longer be sold in large supermarkets or displayed at points of sale. These measures are part of Belgium’s plan to make smoking rare by 2040.

The country’s efforts have had some success. In 1997, about 25% of adults smoked, but by 2018, that number had dropped to 15.3%. While progress has been made, health officials believe tougher measures are still needed to meet the 2040 goal. This makes the ban on disposable vapes a key part of Belgium’s strategy moving forward.

As noted by BBC News, Belgium's aggressive anti-smoking initiatives are part of a broader European trend toward stricter tobacco and vape regulations. BBC News reports that countries across Europe are ramping up their efforts to lower smoking rates, especially among younger generations, by focusing on both health and environmental issues related to disposable vapes.

Milan’s Outdoor Smoking Ban

Milan, Italy, is also taking a stand against smoking. The city has introduced a ban on smoking in outdoor public spaces to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke and improve air quality. Smoking will no longer be allowed in crowded streets, parks, or other public areas, and violators will face fines ranging from €40 to €240.

This ban adds to a rule from 2021 that already made parks, playgrounds, bus stops, and sports venues smoke-free zones. The city’s goal is to create a healthier environment for residents, especially since air pollution has been an ongoing issue. By cutting down on smoking in public areas, Milan hopes to improve both air quality and public health.

Milan’s outdoor smoking ban is consistent with Italy's broader approach to tackling smoking. As highlighted in a Reuters article, Italy has been at the forefront of public health initiatives, making smoking restrictions a key part of their long-term strategy. According to Reuters, this latest ban reflects Italy’s effort to improve urban air quality while reducing the health risks associated with smoking. Reuters points out that Italy’s push for stricter smoking rules comes as smoking-related illnesses still cause significant health issues in the country.

Italy’s Long-Standing Effort to Reduce Smoking

Milan’s outdoor smoking ban is just one part of Italy’s long history of fighting smoking. Italy was one of the first countries in Europe to introduce smoking restrictions in 1975. Over the years, the country has made more rules to reduce smoking rates, and Milan’s ban is another step in that direction.

Even with these efforts, Italy still has a smoking problem. Around 24% of Italians smoke, which leads to about 93,000 smoking-related deaths every year. However, stricter laws like Milan’s outdoor smoking ban could help reduce smoking even further in the coming years.

As Italy24 News reports, smoking rates in Italy have remained stubbornly high, and the government continues to push for more stringent measures to curb tobacco use. Italy24 News highlights the importance of Milan’s ban as a continuation of the country’s decades-long effort to reduce smoking, particularly in urban areas.

A Growing Trend: Bans on Disposable Vapes and Smoking

Belgium and Milan are not alone in their efforts to tackle smoking and vaping. Other European countries are also taking action. In England, Wales, and Scotland, the sale of single-use vapes will be banned starting in June 2025 due to health and environmental concerns. As disposable vapes grow in popularity, more governments are recognizing the need to regulate them to protect both public health and the environment.

As disposable vapes become more common, especially among younger people, the pressure to act has grown. Belgium’s ban is a significant move, and other countries may follow suit with similar restrictions.

A Vision for a Smoke-Free Future

The actions taken by Belgium and Milan are part of a larger effort to make smoking and vaping less common. The goal is to create a future where smoking is no longer seen as acceptable. With measures like these, both Belgium and Milan are making clear that they want to create healthier environments for their citizens.

If other countries follow their lead, we could see a future where smoking and vaping are no longer part of everyday life. These efforts are just the beginning, but they are setting the stage for meaningful change in the years to come. With continued action, a smoke-free future is possible.