A smoking ban on beaches in the Algarve city of Quarteira has been approved by both beach concessionaires and vacationers. Thus, the city has become another region where the ban on smoking is in effect.
A bill to ban tobacco use was introduced by the government on 26 May. It involves quitting smoking on the sea, beaches, rivers, and lakes.
A similar situation was with smoking on the cafe terraces. The population was shocked at first, but eventually, the majority agreed to the “clean air” rules.
At the same time, experts note that the main problem is not smoking, but cigarette butts in the sand, which negatively affect the environment.
So, according to the new law, smoking will also be completely banned in public swimming pools and water parks, as the government considers these places to be entertainment places frequented by children.
In addition, a ban on the sale of tobacco products is established at sports facilities, swimming pools, water parks, venues, concert halls, places of entertainment, bingo halls, game rooms, and casinos, as well as other premises intended for shows and music festivals. Home delivery and street sales of tobacco products are also prohibited.
The sale of tobacco through vending machines is not allowed in places located less than 300 meters from sites and institutions intended for persons under 18 years of age.
On the other hand, despite the government’s initial announcement, the proposal submitted to Parliament does not cover the sale of tobacco at petrol stations.
According to Health Minister Manuel Pizarro, in many places, there are simply no alternatives to buying tobacco, so it should be left at gas stations.
A pack of cigarettes in Portugal costs about 5 euros, one of the lowest prices in Western Europe. While some argue that the government should increase the tobacco tax, others argue that it is not a priority, as prices above a certain level will simply encourage smuggling.