The UA extends tobacco restrictions and advances its plan to become a smoke-free campus

The University of Alicante has taken another step towards its goal of becoming a smoke-free campus with the implementation of the second tobacco-free zone, corresponding to sector 3 of the academic complex, according to a statement from the institution.

During the recently held Welcome Fair, this new space was presented to the university community, adding to the first smoke-free sector inaugurated last year in collaboration with the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC) and within the framework of the Spanish Network of Health Promoting Universities (REUPS).

This advance is part of UA's progressive strategy to reduce smoking on campus and create a "healthier and more sustainable" environment. The selection of the new space was decided through a vote conducted during the last edition of the Welcome Fair, in which the entire university community actively participated.

In this regard, the director of the Sustainable University Secretariat of the UA, José Ramón Martínez Riera, emphasized the importance of this strategy, noting that the campus is getting closer to its ultimate goal of being a completely smoke-free space. "We only need to implement this measure in sector 2 and on the West Campus to complete our plan and make UA a healthier and more sustainable place," he asserted.

The environmental impact has also been a key factor in this initiative. Both smoke and cigarette butts have negative consequences for the environment, and "the progressive elimination of these wastes is a fundamental step towards a cleaner and more responsible campus."

Additionally, Martínez Riera highlighted that this progressive strategy allows for informational campaigns and provides resources to those who wish to quit smoking. "We want to thank the entire university community for their commitment and respect for these smoke-free spaces. We are all responsible for building a healthier and more sustainable university," he stated.

With this initiative, the University of Alicante not only improves the health of its community but also reinforces its role as a leader in sustainability and social responsibility, working jointly with AECC and in line with REUPS objectives, according to the same sources.