Smoking in public is perhaps one of the most debatable and controversial topics around. The discussion on the topic draws diverse and disparate views and opinions. There are two different lobbies or schools of thoughts when it comes to the topic or issue of smoking in public. While the one side is against smoking in public, the other finds absolutely nothing wrong in smoking among others. Both sides have their thoughts and arguments to back their opinion. But, off late the voice against smoking in public has gained strength and momentum and more and more public are vying for banning of smoking in public. There are many countries around the world that have completely prohibited and banned smoking in public areas, which indeed is a right decision. Smoking in public place should not only be totally banned but strict fines should be imposed on people who are found violating the rule.
Smoking in public has its own perils and disadvantages. The most important reason, which is often quoted in favor of the ban of smoking in public, is the threat it poses to the health and safety of people. Smoking not only harms the person or the group, which indulges in it but also for others who are around this person or group. Passive smoking or secondhand smoking, as it is known, is one of the biggest health threats of modern times. It is estimated that smoke consists of a staggering 4,000 chemicals, a whopping 50 out of which are cancer-related. Smoking causes medical and health issues like health and respiratory disorders, bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma etc. The effects or issues are not only restrained or constrained to the smokers but non-smokers too through passive smoking. According to a research by Manitoba Medical Association, Secondhand smoking is the third leading cause of preventable death after active smoking and alcohol (Bethany 2012).
The other most vital and important reason to impose a ban on smoking is that it’s highly unpleasant and offensive for the non-smokers. Where permitted in restaurants, bars, casinos, theaters, transportation and other public places, it is simply that the inconsiderate smoker is imposing his/her addiction on others (Sherman 2011). This is akin to robbing the non-smokers of a healthy and safe environment and hence there should absolutely be no second thoughts about banning smoking in public. The step ensures benefit and safety for all and hence should be pursued even if met with some resistance.
Smoking also adversely affects our atmosphere and environment since it a big contributor to Air, land and Water pollution. The fumes from the cigarettes are an important contributor to air pollution. The cigarette buts cause extensive ground and water pollution and can threaten aquatic life too. According to a finding, the remaining butts on the ground approximately take 25-26 years to decompose completely (ygoy 2013). Banning smoking in public could be an important deterrent for smokers that could lead to reduction in smoking and ultimately benefit our environment.
Thus, it can be clearly and vividly concluded that banning smoking in public is the sane and appropriate choice to make. Though there could be some economic losses but health of citizens and environment are of paramount importance and should be given preference over economic gains and personal choices. Banning is a baby step towards healthier and smoke free world.
References
Bethany S (2012). Ban Smoking in Public Areas.
Teenink, Retrieved April 27, 2013, from
http://teenink.com/hot_topics/health/article/4790/Ban-Smoking-in-Public-Areas/
Sherman, Ted (2011). Why Smoking should be banned in all Public places.
Helium, Retrieved April 27, 2013, from
http://www.helium.com/items/1345291-smoking-should-be-banned-in-all-public-
places
ygoy (2013). How smoking affects the Environment?.
ygoy, Retrieved April 27, 2013, from
http://smoking.ygoy.com/smoking-and-the-environment/
