Smokers in Milan, Italy’s financial and fashion capital, now face fines for lighting up outdoors as a comprehensive smoking ban took effect on January 1, 2025. This new regulation, termed the strictest smoking policy in Italy, imposes penalties ranging from €40 to €240 (approximately $41 to $249) for noncompliance.

The ordinance aims to combat pollution; smoking contributes significantly to air quality issues in the bustling city, which is known for its fashion and commerce. Previously, starting in 2021, smoking was restricted in parks, playgrounds, and bus stops. Now, the ban extends to “all public spaces, including streets,” with exceptions for isolated areas where individuals can maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from others, as noted by the South China Morning Post.

According to the city council, this measure is part of a broader initiative to improve air quality, particularly ahead of the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in 2026. The city's clean air bill was initiated in 2020, highlighting the importance of reducing the health impacts of smoking, especially for children in public areas. Milan is reported to endure some of the highest pollution levels in Europe, primarily due to traffic emissions, and aims to mitigate this through stringent regulations against smoking.

Local residents have mixed reactions to the ban. Some, like 56-year-old non-smoker Stellina Lombardo, support the stricter laws, asserting that “smoking is responsible for a lot of pollution,” and aligning it with efforts to address climate change. Contrarily, others express concern over personal freedoms associated with outdoor smoking. As noted by local plumber Morgan Ishak, “The new law is excessive... banning smoking outdoors for me somewhat limits a person’s freedom.” This sentiment is echoed by Lino Stoppani, president of Fipe Confcommercio, who described the enforcement of these regulations as largely dependent on local authorities, raising doubts about their overall efficacy.

This ban also highlights the cultural intersection of smoking and fashion, as cigarettes have often been perceived as a stylish accessory. Despite their long-standing association with fashion, the city's new stance reflects a contradicted trend, pushing for a healthier environment. Notably, the regulation exempts e-cigarettes, allowing a grey area within the smoking narrative.

Italy has a history of anti-smoking legislation, establishing a national ban in 1975 and expanding it over the years, ultimately prohibiting smoking in all enclosed public spaces by 2005. Presently, statistics indicate that approximately 19% of Italians smoke, below the European Union average of 24%.

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