In a bid to enhance public health and reduce second-hand smoking exposure, Shanghai is set to implement stricter regulations on outdoor smoking at eight prominent tourist destinations starting in mid-March, setting a national precedent.

The identified spots are Wukang Road, Yuyuan Garden Malls, Xintiandi, the Bund, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street, Lujiazui financial area, the Inlet, and Panlong Tiandi.

Each location will implement tailored smoke control measures, focusing on public education and discouragement of smoking in outdoor areas.

Shanghai, home to 25 million permanent residents, has a smoking rate of 19.2 percent among adults.

More alarmingly, 47.6 percent of the population is exposed to second-hand smoke, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulations.

A survey conducted by the Shanghai Association of Tobacco Control found that over 90 percent of residents are against second-hand smoke, citing its harmful health effects and associated safety risks.

Residents are commonly exposed to second-hand smoke in outdoor waiting areas at tourist attractions and restaurants, pedestrian zones, traffic lights, and bus stops.

To address this issue and promote public well-being, districts across Shanghai are mobilizing resources to create smoke-free environments.

Xuhui district, for instance, plans to deploy smoke-free signs on electronic screens and enlist volunteers to discourage smoking in areas surrounding Wukang Road.

Additionally, the district will introduce cultural products to promote a smoke-free environment, catering to the younger demographic that frequents the area.

Huangpu district aims to use posters, voice reminders, and guidance to identify outdoor smoking spots and discourage smoking outside these areas.

At locations like Yuyuan Garden where smoking is already prohibited, officers will conduct patrols to strictly enforce smoking regulations.

In the future, smoking control measures will be integrated into tour guides at these popular sites.

Outdoor smoking areas will be clearly marked on maps, and people will be encouraged to report any violations, including indoor smoking and the absence of visible smoke-free signs, to ensure a healthier and cleaner environment for all residents and visitors alike.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, Jiefang Daily