Spain has implemented a new rule banning smoking on 28 beaches in popular tourist destinations. The new campaign, Nofumadores, is a citizen-based campaign fighting for a tobacco-free Spain. Beaches participating in the initiative now have four-metre banners declaring smoke-free zones and QR codes linking to extra information. Popular destinations, including Majorca, Ibiza and Menorca are implementing the ban, which forms part of the Balearic Islands’ initiative to improve health and reduce the cigarette-butt litter left on beaches.
The reasons for the ban: Health and environmental benefits
One of the main reasons for the ban is to protect the health of the beachgoers and the locals, as smoking is a major cause of preventable diseases and deaths. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, of which 1.2 million are non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. Smoking also increases the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, as it damages the lungs and the immune system.
Another reason for the ban is to preserve the environment and the beauty of the beaches, as cigarette butts are one of the most common and harmful types of marine litter. According to a study by the Ocean Conservancy, cigarette butts account for 32% of all coastal debris collected worldwide, and they can take up to 10 years to decompose. Cigarette butts also contain toxic chemicals, such as nicotine, arsenic, and lead, which can leach into the water and harm the marine life.
The reaction to the ban: Mixed responses from the public and the authorities
The ban has received mixed responses from the public and the authorities, as some support the initiative and some oppose it. Some of the supporters of the ban are the non-smokers, the environmentalists, and the health professionals, who appreciate the benefits of the ban and the awareness it raises. They also hope that the ban will encourage more smokers to quit and reduce the prevalence of smoking in Spain, which is currently 25.6%.
Some of the opponents of the ban are the smokers, the tobacco industry, and some local governments, who argue that the ban is an infringement of their rights and freedoms. They also claim that the ban is ineffective, as it is not enforced by fines or penalties, but relies on the voluntary compliance and the social pressure of the people. They also doubt that the ban will have a significant impact on the health and the environment, as there are other sources of pollution and contamination.
The outlook for the future: A possibility of extending the ban to other areas
The ban on smoking on beaches is part of a larger movement to create smoke-free spaces in Spain, which has been ongoing for several years. In 2011, Spain banned smoking in all indoor public places, such as bars, restaurants, and workplaces. In 2019, Spain also banned smoking in cars with children or pregnant women. The ban on smoking on beaches is the latest step in this direction, and it may pave the way for extending the ban to other outdoor areas, such as parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
The ban on smoking on beaches is also part of a global trend to reduce the consumption and the production of tobacco, which has been supported by various international organizations and agreements. In 2003, the WHO adopted the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, which is a legally binding treaty that aims to prevent and control the tobacco epidemic. In 2020, the UN also launched the Tobacco-Free Finance Pledge, which is an initiative that encourages financial institutions to divest from the tobacco industry.
