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Greece increases the number of 'pristine beaches', sunbeds banned

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, MAY 5 - With the arrival of summer, the Greek Ministries of Environment and Economy have jointly published an updated list of so-called "pristine beaches," which are beaches where any human intervention that could jeopardise the coastal ecosystem is prohibited. This year's list increases the number of affected beaches from 238 to 251. The initiative forbids the use of rental umbrellas and sunbeds, vehicle access, the use of music amplifiers, and the operation of bars. The affected beaches are spread across mainland Greece and the islands, and include numerous marine protected areas in the European Natura 2000 network, some of which are critical habitats for endangered species like the loggerhead sea turtle and the Mediterranean monk seal. Many popular Greek tourist destinations, such as the islands of Crete, Zakynthos, and Naxos, are also affected by the initiative. (ANSA).