Smoke-Free Outdoor Spaces

Benefits of Smoke-Free Outdoor Spaces

ShowMe Smoke-Free Icon
  • Protect people from secondhand smoke.
  • Smoke-free environments prevent children and young people from smoking.1
  • Reduce fire risk.2
  • Reduce maintenance and cleanings costs.3
  • Reduce litter and pollution.4
  • Protect children, pets and wildlife from cigarette butt litter.4
  • Most Missourians who smoke want to quit.5 Tobacco free environments help people quit.1

What outdoor spaces would benefit from a smoke-free policy?

    photo of kids playing at a playground on a slide
  • Parks
  • Trails
  • Beaches
  • Recreational Facilities
  • Amusement Parks
  • Stadiums and Sports Arenas
  • Events
    • Fairs
    • Farmer’s Markets
    • Street Festivals
    • Concerts

What’s the problem with tobacco use outdoors?

  • There is no safe level of secondhand smoke exposure.6
  • Tobacco smoke can be measured in high quantities more than 20 feet from an outdoor source.7
  • Cigarette butt litter:
    • Is the most common type of litter.
    • Takes decades to decompose.
    • Releases toxins into the ground, storm drains, streams, creeks, lakes, and rivers.
  • Toxins and plastics from cigarette butts harm humans, pets, and wildlife.4

What can you do?

  • Use the tools below to implement a smoke-free policy at parks, beaches, or other outdoor spaces.
  • Talk to your park board about adopting a smoke-free policy.
  • Talk to your local or state conservation department about adopting a smoke-free policy.
  • Educate your community leaders about the benefits of smoke-free laws and policies that protect people, animals, and the environment.

Resources

References