Global Alliance for Smoke-free Tourism
The Global Alliance for Smoke-free Tourism (GAST) is a collaborative initiative aimed at promoting healthier, smoke-free environments in tourist destinations worldwide. Â Launched in 2022, GAST unites destinations that have implemented smoke-free policies, creating a global network to strengthen these initiatives and promote tourism that prioritizes both sustainability and public health.
Top 5 Benefits of Going Smoke-free
Enhanced Tourism Experience
Smoke-free environments provide clean, pleasant surroundings, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of each destination.
Health Benefits
Smoke-free areas protect visitors, hospitality workers, and locals from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, which can cause respiratory illnesses and cancer.
Economic Boost
Smoke-free environments provide clean, pleasant surroundings, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of each destination.
Preserving Cultural and Natural Heritage
Smoke-free environments provide clean, pleasant surroundings, allowing tourists to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of each destination.
Environment Protection
Every year, over 766,000 metric tons of cigarette butts pollute our streets, beaches, rivers and oceans. Â These discarded butts release harmful chemicals that contaminate water sources and threaten wildlife. Â Smoke-free tourism helps protect the environment by reducing the toxic waste generated by tobacco products and cigarette waste, preserving the natural beauty and integrity of tourist destinations.
Uncover the Truth and Impact of Smoke-free Tourism
Myths and Facts
Global Snapshot on Smoke-free Tourism
ASEAN success Stories
Champions for GAST: Policies and Partnerships
Official Policy Commitments
- Resolution No. 275, Series of 2026: Expressing the City Government of Baguio’s full support for membership in GAST and affirming its commitment to healthy tourism.Â
- Executive Order No. 96 Series of 2019: Declaring All Heritage Sites and Tourism Zones Covered by Republic Act No. 10555 as Smoke-free Areas in Iloilo City.
Government and NGO Partners
The Global Alliance for Smoke-free Tourism (GAST) is powered by a dedicated network of government offices and civil society organizations committed to protecting public health and promoting sustainable, 100% smoke-free destinations globally.Â
Strategies for Implementation
GAST encourages destinations to implement smoke-free policies through a multi-pronged approach that includes policy development, awareness campaigns, partnerships, and monitoring and evaluation.
1
Policy Development
Partner with governments and tourism boards to establish and enforce smoke-free regulations in public spaces, hotels, restaurants, and attractions
2
Awareness Campaigns
Launch campaigns to educate tourists and locals about the benefits of smoke-free environments, emphasizing the positive impact on health and tourism.
3
Partnerships
Collaborate with local businesses, health organizations, and community groups to promote smoke-free tourism, creating a unified approach to healthier travel destinations.
4
Monitoring and Evaluation
Implement systems to monitor compliance with smoke-free and evaluate their effects on public health and tourism growth.
Why Join GAST?
Joining the Global Alliance for Smoke-free Tourism (GAST) offers significant benefits to both emerging and established smoke-free destinations.
Technical Support
SEATCA and its partners provide comprehensive technical support to destinations striving to become smoke-free. From policy development to implementation, we provide technical support to help you create a healthier environment for both tourists and locals.
Promotion and Visibility
Is your destination already 100% smoke-free? Gain special recognition on the Smoke-free ASEAN website, showcasing your commitment to a clean, healthy, and attractive environment—and boosting your visibility and reputation among travelers.
Smoke-free Tourism Video
By supporting smoke-free tourism, you’re contributing to a more sustainable, enjoyable and healthy travel experience for everyone. Â Join GAST in our mission to create cleaner, safer, and more inviting tourist destinations across the globe.
Explore this site, discover smoke-free destinations and learn how you can be a part of the global movement right here on our website.