From 1 January 2025, Milan a new law will come into force new smoking restriction. Starting from this date, throughout the municipality of the capital city of Milan it will be No smoking outdoors in all public areas, including streets, roads and sidewalks, unless a distance of at least 10 meters from other people is maintained. However, electronic cigarettes are allowed. This ban is part of the second phase of the Air Quality Regulation, which was launched in 2021 and aims to reduce fine dust emissions and improve air quality. A decision that, although it raises debate, is part of a context of growing attention to public health and collective well-being.
Second phase of outdoor ban begins
The smoking ban in the city was introduced gradually. In 2021, in fact, the Municipality had already imposed restrictions in some sensitive areas such as parks, public transport stops, children's play areas, cemeteries and sports facilities. Starting in 2025, however, the ban will will extend to all public areas, including streets and sidewalks. The only exceptions will be in “isolated areas,” where smoking will be permitted provided that a distance of at least 10 meters is maintained from other people.
The aim of the ban: to reduce air pollution
The main reason behind the ban is the health of citizens. According to data provided by Arpa Lombardia, the cigarette smoke fashion is responsible for the 7% of PM10 emissions, fine particulate matter that is one of the main causes of air pollution. Fine dust can penetrate the lungs and cause serious damage, especially in children, who are the most vulnerable to passive smoking. The measure is part of the Air and Climate Plan of the Municipality of Milan, which aims to reduce pollutant emissions and improve air quality, an increasingly relevant issue in a metropolis that is focusing attention on environmental issues.
Smoking ban in Milan: exceptions and loopholes in the law
The ban applies exclusively to tobacco products, while the 'use of electronic cigarettes (e-cig) is not subject to restrictions. This could raise some questions, since e-cigs are sometimes considered a less harmful solution than traditional smoking. It is not yet clear, however, whether the “heat-not-burn” devices, which heat the tobacco without burning it, will be included in the restrictions.
Another ambiguous point concerns the outdoor areas of public places, i.e. the outdoor spaces of restaurants and bars. The regulation does not clearly specify whether the ban will also extend to these areas, generating possible discussions on how to apply the restrictions in private outdoor spaces.
Fines for offenders
Starting in 2025, anyone who violates the regulation will be subject to a fine ranging from 40 to 240 euros, depending on the severity of the infringement.
Stop smoking in Milan: citizens divided on the ban
The ordinance restricting smoking in outdoor public areas starting January 1st has generated conflicting opinions among the Milanese. “It is a fair measure to protect everyone’s health,” says a citizen in favor. Others, however, believe that “common sense would be enough, without excessive restrictions, a measure like this is useless.” And so Milan remains divided between those who consider it necessary and those who consider it an exaggeration.
The one who supports this decision is the Councillor for the Environment and Green, Elena Grandi. “This second step regarding the smoking ban, included in the Regulation for Air Quality, which extends to the whole city the ban already in force in various areas and zones, is first and foremost an awareness raising action which aims to discourage lifestyles that are harmful to the health of everyone, not just smokers" – explained the councilor.
“Cigarette smoking, according to data from Arpa Lombardia, is in fact responsible for 7% of fine dust emissions. We are talking about a measure that aims to be a concrete action that will benefit everyone, both in terms of personal health and general well-being. The behavior of individuals can make a difference and contribute to improving the air quality of our city. As a smoker, I will be the first to change my habits. I am aware that Enforcing this measure will not be simple or immediate, but I am convinced that it will be a tool to start a real cultural change. That's why We count on everyone's collaboration. I am happy that this measure is finding support from the scientific world and we hope that the entire scientific community, sharing this provision, can contribute and help us in the work of raising awareness regarding the harms of smoking”.
