Smokers butted out of 24 beaches in Thailand

BANGKOK: Officials began strictly enforcing a ban on smoking on beaches, with offenders facing a possible year in prison and a 100,000 baht (RM12,421) fine.

The Marine and Coastal Resources Department announced yesterday a strict ban on smoking at 24 beaches in 15 provinces to begin with.

The aim is to protect the environment, such as by reducing the number of discarded cigarette butts, and to protect beachgoers from being disturbed by smokers and from potential harm from second-hand smoke. The beaches have designated smoking areas.

Among the locations are Bang Saen, Thampang, Sai Kaew and Dong Tan beaches in Chon Buri, Sangchan in Rayong, Laem Sadet in Chantaburi, Ban Cheun in Trat and Cha-am Beach in Phetchaburi.

The Marine and Coastal Resources Department puts cigarette butts among the most prevalent forms of waste on beaches and in the sea.

Carrying nicotine, plastic, carcinogens and other toxic substances, they are considered a hazard to the environment and marine ecosystem.