With the imminent arrival of the summer season, the Puglia Region is preparing to welcome tourists and holidaymakers with a series of regulations aimed at ensuring a safe and pleasant seaside experience for everyone. Determination no. 213 of 22 April 2024 of the State Property and Heritage Section gave approval to the new seaside ordinance, which establishes the guidelines for the exercise of tourist-recreational activities on state maritime property and on the territorial sea areas of the region.
Smoke-free beaches
Among the particularly relevant aspects of this ordinance is the invitation to avoid smoking on the beach. This recommendation, already present in past provisions, is also reiterated for the 2024 summer season. The new ordinance which, to a large extent, is nothing more than a confirmation of the previous one, requires that this indication be printed on official posters and will be mandatory for all the beach establishments in Puglia.
Alternatives under consideration
This decision, while potentially controversial for some smokers, opens the door to alternatives that allow them to spend time at the beach without violating the provisions. E-cigarettes or heated tobacco products may be a solution, but these also produce waste similar to cigarette butts; therefore, the commitment not to pollute must remain central. In the last period, then, some innovations have been added, still little known in Italy but potentially very functional when it comes to spending time in places that prohibit smoking.
An example are the nicotine sachets, small microfibre sachets of different flavors and nicotine strengths, easy to use as they are simply placed under the lips to allow absorption through the mucous membranes. This is a novelty, a useful expedient to reduce the consumption of traditional cigarettes, and in this case to not give up on frequenting your favorite places.
The introduction of smoking spaces
Furthermore, the beach establishments in Puglia could, for example, offer designated spaces for smokers, such as special equipped areas away from areas frequented by non-smokers. Furthermore, some facilities may consider adopting awareness and support policies for those who wish to reduce the use of cigarettes, providing information on smoking cessation programs.
Ultimately, the 2024 Seaside Ordinance of the Puglia Region aims to guarantee a safe and pleasant seaside experience for all visitors, while promoting a healthy lifestyle and respect for the marine environment. This initiative not only aims to safeguard the health and well-being of bathers, but is also part of a broader context of raising awareness towards responsible and sustainable behaviour.
At the same time, the offer of alternatives for smokers demonstrates a desire to find a balance between the needs of all visitors. An inclusive and conscious approach that reflects the attention of the Puglia Region towards the promotion of responsible and sustainable tourism, based on mutual respect and the protection of natural resources.
