The Greek government has banned sunbeds on all public beaches in a bid to crack down on illegal trade and the destruction of natural sand dunes. From January 1, 2023, it became mandatory for beachgoers to bring their own sunbeds or use mats on the sand. The government also introduced a ban on the sale of sunscreen at beach kiosks and shops, with pharmacies now being the only authorised points of sale.
Why are sunbeds banned?
The ban on sunbeds is part of a wider effort by the Greek government to protect the country’s natural environment. Over the years, the unregulated use of sunbeds on beaches has led to the destruction of sand dunes, which are important habitats for wildlife and help to protect against erosion. The ban also aims to crack down on illegal trade and the unfair competition faced by legitimate businesses.
What are the new rules?
The new rules state that sunbeds are banned from all public beaches in Greece. This includes all beaches, regardless of whether they are managed by a private concessionaire or not. Beachgoers are permitted to bring their own sunbeds or use mats on the sand. The sale of sunscreen is also banned at beach kiosks and shops, with pharmacies now being the only authorised points of sale.
What are the penalties for breaking the rules?
The penalties for breaking the new rules are as follows:
– Businesses that are caught renting out sunbeds on beaches will be fined €3,000 per sunbed.
– Individuals caught using sunbeds on beaches will be fined €100.
– Businesses that are caught selling sunscreen at beach kiosks and shops will be fined €500.
What is the reaction to the ban?
The ban on sunbeds has been met with mixed reactions. Some beachgoers have welcomed the move, saying that it will help to protect the environment and make the beaches more enjoyable for everyone. Others have criticised the ban, saying that it will make it more difficult for people to relax and enjoy the sun.
The ban on the sale of sunscreen at beach kiosks and shops has also been met with criticism from tourists, who say that it will make it more difficult to protect themselves from the sun. The Greek government has defended the ban, saying that it is necessary to protect public health and prevent the sale of counterfeit sunscreen.
Is the ban working?
It is too early to say whether the ban on sunbeds is working. The ban was only introduced in January 2023, and it will take some time to see how effective it is in reducing the number of sunbeds on beaches. However, the ban has been welcomed by environmentalists, who say that it is a step in the right direction.
What can you do to help?
There are a number of things that you can do to help protect the environment and make the beaches more enjoyable for everyone:
– Bring your own sunbed or use a mat on the sand.
– Buy sunscreen from a pharmacy, not from a beach kiosk or shop.
– Dispose of your trash properly.
– Respect the sand dunes and other natural features on the beach.
Kind regards E. Thompson.
