A number of beaches heavily frequented by tourists in Turkey's Antalya province have become smoke-free zones following new rules introduced at the start of the summer season.
Several countries have strict rules regarding smoking on beaches. PHOTO Shutterstock
Antalya, which attracts approximately 17 million tourists a year, including a large number of Romanians, is thus trying to reduce the impact of pollution on the marine environment.
The restrictions came into effect on June 5 and target the beaches of Lara, Belek, Çamyuva and Beach Park, areas chosen specifically because of the large number of tourists who visit them annually, according to The Sun.
Smoking and throwing mucus, prohibited
According to the new rules, smoking and throwing cigarette butts on the beach are prohibited in certain areas.
The measure is part of the program “Blue Mediterranean Initiativee”, which aims to protect the marine ecosystem and the coastline.
Ebru Şahin, the project coordinator, explained that the problem is more serious than it seems: “Images taken from the sea floor showed what appeared to be marine organisms…but were actually cigarette butts“.
This waste “they collect among sand and gravel, are carried out to sea by currents and cause serious damage to the ecosystem”the project coordinator emphasized, adding that “protecting the seas starts with small changes in behaviour”.
Fines for tourists and locals
Those who break the new rules risk fines of around 1,764 Turkish liras (around 50 euros).
The authorities are considering expanding the restrictions nationwide, not only on beaches, but also in other public spaces, such as sports fields, educational institutions, medical centers or playgrounds.
In this case, the fines could reach up to 5,000 Turkish Liras (about 150 euros).
European trend: tougher bans
Turkey is not the only country to adopt such measures.
In Spain, there have already been, for several years, strict rules regarding smoking on beaches and in public spaces, their violation being sanctioned with fines that can reach several thousand euros.
As of July 1, 2025, the French authorities have also announced a ban on smoking on beaches, parks or near schools from July 1, 2025.
