Smoking and vaping becoming less common and accepted in British Columbia

In British Columbia, one of Canada's ten provinces, a recent survey found that tobacco use and vaping are declining and increasingly viewed negatively by residents who support expanding smoke-free spaces. The results come from an online survey conducted by Research Co. from July 13 to 15, 2025, among 814 adults in British Columbia. The data was weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender, and region.[1].

Tobacco and vaping decline, marijuana use more widespread

For several decades, British Columbians have been required to adhere to certain rules if they wish to consume tobacco. Similar regulations were put in place with the legalization of cannabis in October 2018, as well as in response to the growing popularity of vaping, particularly among young adults.

According to a survey conducted by Research Co., the use of tobacco and vaping-related products is in sharp decline. In 1965, approximately half of Canadians reported smoking. In 2025, only 19% of British Columbians reported having used tobacco in the past year. This proportion is higher among men (24% of British Columbians), in the northern part of the province (35% of British Columbians), and among people of Indigenous descent (34% of British Columbians).

Marijuana use is slightly more widespread: 23% of respondents report having smoked cannabis during the year, while 19% have used it in another form. Vaping affects 15% of the population, with a higher rate among 18-34 year olds (23% of respondents) and among BC Conservative Party voters in the last provincial election (22% of respondents).

The social perception of smokers and vapers is less valued than before

Additionally, while less than a quarter of British Columbians have smoked tobacco, consumed cannabis or used an e-cigarette in the past year, the survey also looked at the influence of these habits on their romantic lives.

People who use cannabis appear to be the most likely to be accepted: 50% of respondents say they would not date a partner who smokes cannabis. This rate rises to 57% for e-cigarette users, and 62% for tobacco smokers.

Gender also influences these preferences. No notable difference is observed between men and women regarding cannabis smokers. On the other hand, women are more likely to reject tobacco smokers (65 % compared to 58 % for men) and vapers (59 % compared to 55 % for men).

Locals support extension of anti-smoking legislation

The majority of provincial residents support current smoking regulations. More than four in five respondents support banning smoking in public and private schools, from kindergarten to high school (88 %), in indoor public spaces such as public transportation, workplaces, restaurants, bars, and casinos (87 %), and in private vehicles occupied by children (81 %).

Support is somewhat weaker when it comes to banning smoking in parks, beaches, promenades, or seaside paths. In these locations, 67% of respondents support the ban, while 28% oppose it.

Similar responses were obtained for vaping: 88 %s supported a ban in schools, 84 %s in indoor public places, and 81 %s in vehicles carrying children. Regarding outdoor places such as parks or beaches, 66 %s supported a ban, while 30 %s were against it.

The issue of banning smoking and vaping in multi-unit residential buildings was also raised, particularly in urban areas. Currently, owners and condominium boards can designate certain units or balconies as "smoke-free." However, 77% of respondents would support a general ban on tobacco and cannabis in these buildings, and 73% would support a ban on vaping.

At the other end of the country, Quebec has committed to the fight against youth vaping by launching, in March 2025, “Aspire to Better,” the first vaping cessation program for young adults, to provide specific tools and support to help the 22 % young adults aged 18 to 24 who vape regularly.

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[1]Canseco Mario, Mario Canseco: Smoking, vaping lose ground in BC as support for bans grows, says survey, Business Intelligence for BC, published August 7, 2025, accessed August 8, 2025

National Committee Against Smoking |