Anyone caught smoking on a Thai beach from now on could face hefty fines – or even a prison sentence.

The smoking ban is not linked to health aspects – but to littering.

Cigarette butts contribute significantly to the pollution found in both the sand and water along Thailand's beaches.

Those who wish to smoke must now seek out designated smoking areas with ashtrays that have been set up around the beaches.

Environmental groups have long appealed to the authorities for the protection of the country's beaches – which are considered among the most beautiful in the world.

Source: yle.fi