Shanghai unveiled a WeChat mini-program dedicated to reporting illegal public smoking on May 30, just a day ahead of World No Tobacco Day, to empower citizens with a more convenient and efficient means of providing feedback on smoking violations within the city.

The newly launched WeChat mini-program builds upon the existing Shanghai smoking control heat map, which was introduced in 2021 to encourage residents to actively participate in creating a smoke-free urban environment.

By conducting a keyword search on WeChat or scanning a designated QR code, individuals can easily access the mini-program and submit reports concerning various infractions, including illegal indoor smoking, cigarette residue, and the absence of smoking-free signage in areas where smoking is prohibited by law.

The feedback gathered through the mini-program will undergo analysis and be visually represented on the heat map, with distinct colors indicating three tiers of alert levels.

This data visualization tool will not only serve to raise awareness but also support the efforts of authorities in patrolling, supervising, and enforcing regulations against illegal smoking across the city.

Shanghai has long been at the forefront of tobacco control measures in China, having enacted comprehensive legislation in 2010 to curb smoking and safeguard public health.

As a result of these concerted efforts, the adult smoking rate in the city has witnessed a significant decline, dropping by 8.3 percentage points to just 18.6 percent.

Source: eastday.com