TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The health ministry encouraged people to quit smoking for the environment on Earth Day, noting that cigarette production emits about the same amount of carbon dioxide as 17 million cars.

The ministry said in a press release on Tuesday that this amounts to 80 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, per CNA. It said not smoking protects the planet by conserving energy, reducing emissions, and protecting forests.

The ministry also noted the obvious health risks, including the WHO’s estimate of 8 million smoking-related deaths annually. The WHO also estimates that tobacco farming accounts for 5% of deforestation globally.

The ministry’s Health Promotion Administration Director, Wu Chao-chun (吳昭軍), said tobacco consumption of any kind is harmful. He said the ministry will continue promoting anti-smoking measures, including smoke-free spaces, health warnings on tobacco products, and tobacco taxes.

Wu said the health of people and the earth is inseparable. He said refusing to smoke will help Taiwan achieve its net-zero 2050 goal.

According to the ministry, about 13% of Taiwanese above 18 smoked last year, down from about 22% in 2008. Wu encouraged people to use the ministry’s smoking cessation services, including the more than 2,700 health care providers across Taiwan who provide help.

Wu said people wanting to quit smoking can also call the smoking cessation hotline or contact the ministry’s Line account. 

Taiwan passed the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act in 2023. The act restricted areas where people can smoke, outlined fines for violators, banned promoting smoking, and outlined other measures.