Through his efforts, this 22-year-old man showed people that an ordinary person can make a contribution through sheer will and determination, says Canadian government
world3 days ago
The EU on Tuesday called on member countries to ban smoking and vaping in many outdoor areas including playgrounds, swimming pools and restaurant patios as part of a crackdown on second-hand smoke.
In a non-binding recommendation, the European Commission said extending "smoke-free environment policies" would better protect people's health, and in particular that of children.
It urged the bloc's 27 countries to extend restrictions in place for cigarettes to cover electronic cigarettes and other emerging products, such as heated tobacco devices, "which increasingly reach very young users".
"We have a duty to protect our citizens, in particular children and young people, against exposure to harmful smoke and emissions," said health commissioner Stella Kyriakides.
Tobacco use is estimated to kill more than eight million people globally each year, including about 1.3 million non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke, World Health Organization (WHO) statistics show.
Emissions from electronic cigarettes also typically contain nicotine and other toxic substances that are harmful also to second-hand smokers, according to the WHO.
Among the locations where all smoking should be banned, the commission listed bus stops, zoos, rooftop bars and cafe terraces.
The EU is aiming to reduce its smoking population from around 25 per cent now to less than five per cent of the total by 2040, as part of its "Beating Cancer Plan".
Health policy is however a competence of member states, meaning the commission can only invite them to implement its recommendations in the area as they see fit.
ALSO READ:
Through his efforts, this 22-year-old man showed people that an ordinary person can make a contribution through sheer will and determination, says Canadian government
world3 days ago
Aftershocks shake the island nation overnight; people queue for fuel and essentials; US, Australia and France send aid, rescue teams
world3 days ago
The 53-year-old from Alabama is currently the only living person with an animal organ transplant
world3 days ago
Sara had been subjected to 'acts of extreme cruelty' but Sharif and Batool had not shown 'a shred of remorse', says judge Cavanagh
world3 days ago
The UNHCR Director said that some of those fleeing could be linked to the former government or else be religious minorities with concerns
world4 days ago
Rafah residents say Israeli tanks pushed deeper towards the western area of Mawasi, known as a humanitarian-designated area
world4 days ago
Kamal Adwan is one of the last operational medical facilities in the north of the war-ravaged territory, with the WHO warning earlier this month that it was operating at a 'minimum' level
world4 days ago
A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre forecast for some areas, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre
world4 days ago