Say Goodbye to ‘Roaming Smoke’ ： New Smoking Ban Kicks Off

Source: OT-Team(G)，澎湃新闻

  Starting in mid-March 2025, Shanghai began addressing outdoor smoking, or "roaming smoke," at eight popular landmarks known for attracting both local and international tourists.

These sites include Wukang Road, Yuyuan Garden, Xintiandi, Nanjing Road Pedestrian Mall, Lujiazui, the Bund, INLET and Panlong Tiandi. The initiative is aimed at reducing the harmful effects of secondhand smoke in these crowded, high-traffic areas.

Since its implementation, the move has sparked widespread public attention, with many netizens suggesting it should be adopted nationwide. Shanghai has taken multiple steps over the years to control outdoor secondhand smoke. This latest measure focuses on eight popular spots. But why these specific locations, and how are authorities addressing the issue?

Chen De, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Health Promotion Center and Vice President of the Shanghai Smoking Control Association, provided insights into the initiative.

Outdoor Smoke vs. Cigarette Smoke: What's the Difference?

Outdoor smoking, or "roaming smoke," occurs when individuals smoke while walking or cycling outdoors, generating smoke that affects bystanders. This is essentially secondhand smoke. Both first-hand and second-hand smoke contain hundreds of toxic and harmful substances, with at least 70 known carcinogens, according to studies by the World Health Organization and the National Health Commission.

Which Departments are Involved and What Measures Are Being Taken?

The initiative started in March 2025 at eight high-profile landmarks to create a demonstration effect. These sites will leverage the management teams of the locations (such as property committees and businesses) to combine efforts in regulation, education, and enforcement.

For example, at Jinchao 8 Lane, no-smoking signs have been added at the main entrance and nearby subway exits. Smoking areas have been removed, and health ambassadors will patrol the area during peak hours. Volunteers will also dynamically monitor the area, forming a round-the-clock, multi-layered network to discourage smoking.

Currently, the focus is on public awareness, and management teams are implementing regular patrols and educational initiatives. Business owners are also encouraged to guide smokers and provide no-smoking prompts in various public spaces.

Why Focus on These Popular Landmarks?

Although Shanghai's adult smoking rate has decreased to 19.2%, the secondhand smoke exposure rate remains high at 47.6%. While indoor smoking control has improved, outdoor secondhand smoke remains a serious issue. A survey shows that nearly 60% of citizens frequently encounter roaming smoke, and over 90% are dissatisfied with it. Outdoor smoking not only harms public health but also poses safety risks and impacts the city's aesthetics and travel experience.

Common spots where citizens encounter roaming smoke include outdoor waiting areas, sidewalks, bus stops, and entrances to shopping malls and office buildings. Schools, hospitals, and subway entrances are also areas of concern.

Challenges and Future Plans

Challenges in managing roaming smoke include the high mobility of people in popular areas and a need for greater public awareness about health and civility. Multiple departments, including tourism, city management, and health services, are collaborating to raise awareness and enforce regulations.

Once effective strategies are developed, efforts will be expanded to more locations, such as outdoor waiting areas, bus stops, and entrances to schools and hospitals.