From Sunday, France has rolled out a sweeping smoking ban covering beaches, parks, public gardens and more — all part of a government decree published on Saturday. The move, which excludes cafe terraces, aims to protect children and communities from the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Key details:
- Spaces covered: beaches, parks, public gardens, bus shelters, libraries, swimming pools and schools.
- Fines: violators face a €135 penalty.
- Exemptions: cafe terraces remain smoke-friendly zones; electronic cigarettes are not addressed by the decree.
"Tobacco must disappear from places where there are children," said Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin, highlighting the "right of children to breathe pure air."
Each year, around 75,000 people in France die from tobacco-related illnesses. A recent survey shows that 62% of French residents support public smoking bans — a sign of growing demand for healthier public spaces. For travelers and digital nomads, this means clearer skies on the beach and cleaner park benches for remote work sessions.
Whether you’re a local entrepreneur planning a poolside meeting or a tourist soaking up the sun, be sure to check the no-smoking zones before lighting up. With this ban, France joins a global trend of policies reshaping public spaces for a smoke-free future.
As nations around the world roll out stronger anti-tobacco measures, France’s latest ban highlights a dynamic push for public health — a story that resonates with young changemakers and global citizens.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
