Read articles from Europe

December 09, 2024 by reuters.com

Sixteen EU countries have called on the European Commission to propose new legislation to include products like electronic cigarettes (vapes) under the EU's tobacco taxation framework. The initiative, led by the Netherlands and supported by countries such as France, Germany, and Spain, highlights the need to update the 2011 EU tobacco taxation law. Currently, the absence of EU-wide regulations on vaping has led to fragmented national rules and varying excise taxes, distorting the single market. The joint letter from finance ministers stresses that existing directives are insufficient to address the challenges posed by the evolving tobacco industry, urging harmonized action to prevent market imbalances.

December 05, 2024 by connexionfrance.com

The French Health Minister supported extending smoking bans to outdoor areas like hospital surroundings and restaurant terraces, approved by EU Member States except for Germany and Greece. A proposal to ban smoking in various outdoor spaces was passed, but a vote on banning e-cigarettes did not pass due to differences with traditional tobacco views. The European Commission recommended banning emerging products like e-cigarettes citing health risks and WHO warnings. The EU aims for a smoke-free generation by 2040, with some disagreeing on banning smoking in cafe and restaurant terraces but supporting smoke-free areas near schools and care centers.

December 05, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

Smoking rates in Spain hit a record low of 25.84% in 2024, down from 33.1% in 2022. This decline is attributed to government efforts like higher tobacco taxes, strict advertising rules, smoke-free zones, and support for quitting. Despite progress, smoking causes around 50,000 deaths each year in Spain. Vaping's popularity is rising, with e-cigarette users doubling in four years, but the government plans to regulate them with restrictions on flavors, indoor use, and possible taxes to align with tobacco laws.

December 04, 2024 by daily-pouch.com

The vaping legislation debate highlighted misconceptions about regulation, vaping as a gateway to smoking, and lack of understanding among MPs. Despite existing regulations like the UK Tobacco and Related Products Regulations, flaws in the bill were overlooked. New MPs faced challenges navigating parliamentary procedures, while misguided criticisms and concerns over vaping flavors were raised. The voting outcome favored the bill, impacting public health and individual freedoms. The lack of evidence-based policymaking was evident, met with laughter from MPs. The debate reflected a need for informed decision-making and consideration of harm reduction benefits of vaping.

December 03, 2024 by sofiaglobe.com

European Union health ministers adopted a recommendation on December 3 to reduce second-hand smoke exposure, aiming for a tobacco-free Europe by 2040 under the Beating Cancer Plan. The recommendation includes expanding protection to outdoor areas like playgrounds and restaurant terraces, encompassing emerging tobacco products like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. These products release harmful emissions that bystanders can inhale. The EU will encourage countries to limit their use in public spaces and workplaces. The focus is on safeguarding children and youth from the dangers of second-hand smoke and aerosols, with progress to be reported by the European Commission within five years. Revision of tobacco legislation is also emphasized.

December 03, 2024 by dailymail.co.uk

Plans to jail those advertising vapes or nicotine have been criticized by senior Tories as 'madness'. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill proposes a two-year prison term for promoting smoking or vaping products. The UK-wide law aims to create a smoke-free generation by banning advertising and sponsorships. Critics argue that penalizing advertisers targeting adults seeking to quit cigarettes is extreme. MPs are urged to revise the bill, as it could hinder smoking cessation efforts. The government defends the legislation, stating it aims to prevent nicotine addiction among youth. Concerns about restricting individual choices and empowering ministers excessively have been raised. The bill faces scrutiny and calls for amendment during the parliamentary process.

December 02, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

The Czech government, along with Italy, opposes the EU proposal to ban vaping in public spaces, advocating for harm reduction policies based on prevention. Germany's potential opposition could lead to the proposal's rejection, impacting the upcoming elections. Prague emphasizes a harm reduction approach for addiction policies and supports revising the Tobacco Products Directive based on scientific evidence. This stance could influence the outcome of the proposal and future tobacco regulations in Europe.

December 02, 2024 by worldvapersalliance.com

The European Parliament rejected a resolution recommending extending outdoor smoking and vaping bans, a win for consumer rights and harm reduction. Equating vaping with smoking would have spread misinformation, hindering smokers from switching to less harmful options. Vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking, with minimal risks for users and bystanders. The rejection aligns with scientific consensus and advocates' concerns, setting a positive precedent for tobacco control policies focused on harm reduction and individual choice. This decision emphasizes the importance of evidence-based policymaking and protecting consumer freedoms.

November 28, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Sweden has become the first smoke-free country, with only 4.5% of adults smoking. Embracing harm reduction methods, such as snus and e-cigarettes, has led to significant health improvements. The country's approach, focusing on alternatives over prohibition, has resulted in lower tobacco-related diseases and reduced cancer rates. Smoke Free Sweden urges other nations to follow their evidence-based policies for a smoke-free future. Sweden’s success highlights the efficacy of harm reduction strategies and the importance of accessible safer nicotine products in reducing smoking rates and improving public health globally.

November 28, 2024 by news-medical.net

A recent survey published in ERJ Open Research shows that seven out of ten European homes are smoke-free, but progress varies across countries. Greece has the highest percentage of smoking-permitted homes. Research indicates slow growth in smoke-free homes with stronger tobacco control measures needed. Factors influencing smoke-free homes include education level, age, gender, and having children. Women, older individuals, and those with higher education are more likely to have smoke-free homes. The study suggests gradual yearly increases in smoke-free homes but emphasizes the need for faster progress through stronger tobacco control policies. Plans to expand the study include researching vaping in homes and promoting smoke-free environments.