Non-Smokers' Rights Association v. British American Tobacco
Non-Smokers’ Rights Association (DNF) brought suit against British American Tobacco (BAT) - France for the unlawful advertising and promotion of tobacco products. BAT had launched a campaign called "Act together" and distributed portable ashtrays near beaches. The ashtrays bore no cigarette brand names or logos, but described the length of time it took various types of materials to biodegrade. The purpose of the campaign was purportedly to help smokers protect the environment. DNF also highlighted the campaign’s website which linked to sections on smoking and health and smoking and the environment, warned that smoking was hazardous, and noted that the company prioritized preventing youth smoking - but bore no cigarette brand names or logos. Because there were no cigarette brands or logos on the ashtrays or the website, nor any other language promoting tobacco products, the court dismissed the action against BAT.
