Campaign to reduce terrace smoking

Monday, 4 May 2026 06:30

Geneva is launching a new campaign to reduce secondhand smoke on café terraces, but without imposing a ban.

Authorities are urging smokers to ask nearby customers before lighting up, with the message soon appearing on tables across the city.

Reactions are mixed. Some restaurateurs say the approach is impractical, while others fear it could pave the way for stricter rules.

A proposal to ban smoking during mealtimes is already under discussion.

The campaign will be evaluated in 2027, with further measures possible depending on the results.

More from Bitesize News

Heat closes Geneva paddling pools

Eight of Geneva's eleven paddling pools are now closed as the city battles bacterial contamination during the heatwave.
Soaring temps hit hospitals

Hospital rooms at the Geneva University Hospital are hitting 34 degrees - with temperatures in the cafeteria up at 40.
Crans-Montana looks to summer season after fire tragedy

Crans-Montana is hoping for a broadly stable summer, more than six months after the New Year fire at the Constellation bar.
MétéoSuisse warns of budget cuts

The federal weather service is warning that government budget cuts risk making our forecasts less accurate.
Rents rise Geneva - more than Zurich

Rents in Geneva have risen 5.3% over the past year, putting the canton well above the national average of 2.5%, according to the property platform Homegate.
Better passenger rights coming

We’re going to get stronger air passenger rights, after the European Parliament voted for a major tightening of the rules.