Olot, in Girona, has recorded fewer people smoking near school premises, according to a study carried out in March. The assessment looked at direct observations, including the presence of smokers, the smell of tobacco, and cigarette butts found around school areas.
The study was carried out by technicians from the Public Health Agency of Catalonia, the Olot and Garrotxa Regional Hospital Foundation, Olot City Council through SIGMA, and volunteers from the Association Against Cancer in Girona. Their findings show a drop compared with a similar assessment carried out four years ago.
Even with the improvement, the organisations behind the study say continued action is needed to keep reducing smoking around schools. The data gives a clear picture of how the situation has changed over time.
The work sits within wider public health efforts across Catalonia to create healthier spaces for children and young people. Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke near schools remains a key goal for health bodies in the region.
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