Tobacco and nicotine use remain the leading causes of preventable disease and death in Europe and across the world. Despite overwhelming scientific evidence linking tobacco and nicotine consumption to cancer, cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and a long list of other diseases and disabilities, we are still far from ending the tobacco epidemic. Yet, progress in tobacco control remains too slow. Inaction — or insufficient action — in the face of such clear harm is no longer acceptable.
Adding to this danger is the growing influence of Big Tobacco’s narrative of a “smoke-free future”. By promoting alternative tobacco and nicotine products under the guise of harm reduction, the industry is rebranding itself as part of the solution, while continuing to drive addiction and undermine tobacco control efforts. This narrative risks deeply confusing the public, especially young people, who may begin to believe that the industry genuinely supports healthier cities and a healthier world.
That is why the 10th European Conference on Tobacco or Health (ECToH) comes at a crucial moment. Not only does this edition mark a significant milestone in the history of ECToH, but it also presents a unique opportunity to align tobacco control with a broader vision of health and sustainability: Nicotine- Free Spaces for Healthier Cities. Tobacco and nicotine have no place in the cities we want for future generations. Cleaner air, more green spaces, and public environments free from harmful substances are essential to achieving the WHO’s One Health approach, protecting people from tobacco smoke and the influence of the tobacco industry.