Jesolo has launched its first designated “Smoking Area” along the beachfront following a ban on smoking along the shoreline. The initiative, led by the Jesolo Tourism Board (Consorzio turismo), is part of a broader campaign to combat cigarette butt litter on beaches and across the city.
The inaugural smoking zone is located at the Oro Beach establishment, managed by Jesolo Turismo. “We set up this first area,” explained Mayor Christofer De Zotti, “for those who wish to smoke, ensuring cigarette butts are recycled. We are looking ahead, considering nursery areas for young children and exploring new possibilities to improve beach access for pets.”
Eleonora Baldo, President of Jesolo Turismo, stated: “This initiative is particularly close to our hearts as it combines two core values: innovation and sustainability. These same values inspire the renovation of our beach establishments.” At Oro Beach, Green Beach, and Platinum Beach, customers can request portable ashtrays to prevent butts from being discarded in the sand.
An information campaign features signage displaying photographed cigarette butts on Jesolo’s beach, outlining the smoking prohibition and the environmental consequences of littering. The ban, prohibiting “smoking along the shoreline in the freely accessible beach section” including e-cigarettes, took effect on May 16th. Violations incur a 200-euro fine.
Signs detailing the ban will be displayed on notice boards at all beach management units (UMg), kiosks, and mobile ice cream carts operating along the shore. Similar smoking bans are already enforced in other Italian tourist destinations, such as Bibione near Venice.