Scientists have for the first time mapped the visibility of smoking in city streets anywhere in the world, producing a record of the areas where most smokers could be seen.
Data from observations across the downtown area in Wellington, New Zealand, were mapped by the researchers using methods previously used for landscape ecology and archaeology.
The methods developed through this research will help policymakers demonstrate the visibility of smoking in different areas, and provide scientific evidence for local authorities to advance smoke-free outdoor policies.
The research by University of Otago found that up to 116 smokers outside bars/cafes could be seen from any one location in the outdoor public areas of downtown Wellington (eg on a footpath).
Of 2600 people observed in the outdoor areas of bars and cafes, 16 per cent were smoking, with a higher proportion in evenings.
Data from observations across the downtown area were mapped by the researchers, producing a record of the street areas where most smokers could be seen.
Lead researcher Dr Amber Pearson said that the methods developed through this research will help policymakers demonstrate the visibility of smoking in different areas, and provide scientific evidence for local authorities to advance smoke-free outdoor policies.
Associate Professor George Thomson, said the results show the need for policies to reduce the normality of smoking.
“Smoke-free outdoor areas help smokers to quit, help those who have quit to stick with it, and reduce the normalisation of smoking for children and youth. They also reduce litter, water pollution and cleaning costs for local authorities and ratepayers,” Thomson said.
In Australia, North America and other places, local authorities are increasingly creating smoke-free streets, he said.