How can I support the work of Pro Rauchfrei?
Either by getting actively involved or by making a donation to our association’s account: IBAN: DE27 7635 0000 0051 0044 40, BIC: BYLADEM1ERH at Sparkasse Erlangen, or via PayPal (bottom of the right-hand sidebar).
Donations to Pro Rauchfrei are tax-deductible. If you would like to receive a donation receipt – a bank statement is sufficient for amounts up to 300 euros – please state your full name and current postal address when making the transfer, or send us a message via our contact form. Your donations will be used exclusively to fulfil our statutory objectives. Click here to view our Articles of Association.
Why have an association to protect non-smokers? Surely everyone can decide for themselves where they go.
You can do that if you have a choice of different restaurants and bars. Unfortunately, however, this is not always the case everywhere, particularly in clubs or bars. Generally speaking, the range of smoke-free options in the drinks-oriented hospitality sector still leaves a great deal to be desired. Think also of the young people who follow their smoking friends due to peer pressure. But the protection of non-smokers is not just an issue in the hospitality sector. Imagine you can no longer air your home because a chain-smoking neighbour has moved in. Even if an employee has a legal right to a smoke-free workplace, they cannot always enforce it without risking dismissal or an intolerable working atmosphere. And don’t forget: you’ll be heard more clearly if you’re represented by a group of like-minded people.
How can I get involved?
You can become a member – it’s free of charge. By doing so, you’ll be showing your support for us. The stronger we become as an association, the more we can achieve! As a member, you’ll also have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of voluntary roles. Join a community of interested and committed non-smokers!
What is Pro Rauchfrei e.V.’s stance on tobacco advertising and cigarette vending machines?
Tobacco advertising is specifically designed to entice young people into smoking. Tobacco vending machines also undermine the protection of minors. Furthermore, the constant presence and availability of tobacco in public spaces prevents a shift in public attitudes, which is also crucial for the long-term protection of non-smokers. Pro Rauchfrei e.V. therefore advocates the abolition of advertising for tobacco and nicotine products, as well as vending machines for both tobacco and e-cigarettes.
The tobacco lobby is very powerful. Isn’t your work just a futile struggle?
Meaningful goals and sound strategies ultimately prevail, sooner in some places, later in others (such as in Germany). But here too, the realisation is currently gaining ground that all citizens, the health system and the economy benefit from a consistent prevention policy and comprehensive protection for non-smokers. Why should society as a whole bear all the costs and all the suffering caused by illness and premature death due to tobacco consumption, while the tobacco and nicotine industry can reap the profits?
YES, WE CAN!