Objective: This project was to eliminate second-hand smoking by requesting the removal of ashtrays from convenience stores in Hatsukaichi City.
Method: Convenience stores with ashtrays were selected and requests for the removal of ashtrays were made twice, in FY2022 and FY2023.
Result: In FY2022, 2 out of 26 stores with ashtrays removed ashtrays, but one of them installed ashtrays again. 2 stores agreed to remove ashtrays in FY2023. These stores were presented with a letter of appreciation and commendation.
Discussion: However, convenience stores are not subject to the revised Health Promotion Act, and many citizens still experience second-hand smoking in stores with ashtrays. In particular, many elementary and junior high school students are victims of second-hand smoking when they walk to and from school in stores facing school routes. We have requested the removal of ashtrays over the past two years, and three of our stores have now done so. We believe that we were able to carry out meaningful activities, even though they were only a small contribution.
Conclusion: We sincerely hope that the revised Health Promotion Act will be applied to many sites, such as convenience stores, where second-hand smoking still remains a problem.
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