The smoking era has ended on these beaches: The ban has officially begun

With the start of the summer season in Turkey, density has increased, especially on beaches along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Cigarette butts left behind on shores preferred by domestic and foreign tourists are causing environmental pollution.

PENALTIES IN EUROPE REACH THOUSANDS OF EUROS

In Spain and France, which are among Turkey's competitors in tourism, smoking is prohibited on many beaches. The fines applied in these countries can range from 30 euros up to 2,000 euros.

THE BAN HAS BEGUN ON SOME BEACHES IN ANTALYA

One of the first steps regarding the smoking ban was taken in Antalya. In line with the goal of combating environmental pollution and creating smoke-free air zones, restrictions on smoking have been introduced on some beaches in the city.

In Antalya, which is preparing to host COP31 in November, efforts to prevent pollution caused by cigarette butts have gained momentum.

Within the scope of the regulation prepared by examining practices in Belgium, France, and Spain, smoking has been banned in Lara, Belek, Çamyuva, and Beach Park.

NEW LEGISLATIVE PROPOSAL COMING TO PARLIAMENT

The AKP is nearing the end of preparing a legislative proposal to expand existing bans on cigarettes, hookahs, and other tobacco products. The proposal is expected to be submitted to the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) shortly.

According to the draft, smoking will not be permitted in the outdoor areas of businesses providing food and beverage services. Food and beverage service will not be allowed in areas designated for smokers.

Furthermore, smoking will be included in the scope of the ban in open spaces such as places of worship, educational institutions, universities, healthcare facilities, playgrounds, sports areas, and beaches.

New restrictions on smoking are also planned for some open spaces that are not open to the public.

PENALTIES WILL BE INCREASED

It is also envisioned that the sanctions to be applied to individuals and businesses that act in violation of the ban will be toughened.

According to the regulation, it is planned that fines could start from 5,000 liras and go up to 10 million liras, and in some cases, sanctions extending to the revocation of licenses could be applied.

It is also aimed to increase the 1,764 lira fine currently applied to those who smoke in prohibited areas to 5,000 liras.

News Source: 12punto