Antalya launches smoke‑free beach program to curb litter and protect the sea

The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality, together with the governor’s office, opened several "smoke‑free beach" zones on the city’s Konyaaltı coastline and nearby sites. Signage marks the areas where smoking is prohibited, and violators face fines under Turkey’s Traffic Offences Law. New public water fountains were installed to discourage single‑use plastic bottles. The initiative was presented during World Environment Day events, with officials emphasizing the goal of reducing cigarette‑butt pollution and safeguarding the marine ecosystem.

Local residents and visitors praised the measure, noting that the ban improves air quality for families and people with respiratory conditions while setting a cleaner example for children. The program is part of Antalya’s broader environmental actions ahead of hosting COP31 later this year.