Smoking Ban Takes Effect in Milan, Italy: Harsh Fines for Defiance
A new smoking ban has come into effect in Milan, Italy’s financial and fashion capital, imposing fines of between 40 to 240 euros on those who defy the prohibition in public spaces. The ban, which applies to all public areas, including streets, aims to reduce particulates in the air and protect public health.
The move is part of Milan’s air quality ordinance, passed in 2020, which has gradually banned smoking in various public areas, including parks, playgrounds, bus stops, and sports facilities. The latest ban allows smoking only in isolated areas where it is possible to maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from others.
The new law has not been universally welcomed, with some residents feeling it restricts their freedom too much. “The new law is excessive in my opinion,” said Morgan Ishak, a local plumber. “I agree not to smoke indoors, not to smoke near an elderly person or a child, but banning smoking outdoors for me somewhat limits a person’s freedom.”
However, others support the ban, such as non-smoker Stellina Lombardo, who believes it will help reduce pollution and improve air quality. “I agree very much because smoking is responsible for a lot of pollution, in this era when we suffer a lot from climate change. A measure like this can help to scale down the effects of pollution that is devastating the planet.”
Smoking is a significant problem in Italy, with 19% of the population smoking, although this is lower than the 24% average across the European Union. Cigarettes are also relatively cheap in Italy, averaging around six euros a pack, compared to over 10 euros in many other European countries. The Italian health ministry estimates that 93,000 deaths per year are attributed to smoking, and the World Health Organization states that smoking is responsible for 85% of all cases of lung cancer, the deadliest cancer worldwide.