Smoking Prohibition in Spain for British Tourists: No Longer Allowed to Smoke Near Pools, Outdoor Clubs, or Sunny Terraces
Spain is set to expand its smoke-free zones, with a new proposal targeting various public spaces, including school premises, work vehicles, university campuses, sports facilities, and public swimming pools. The measure, recently approved by Spain's Health Ministry, also applies to outdoor leisure areas, such as bar, café, and restaurant terraces, and transport shelters.
In addition to traditional tobacco products, the ban will encompass e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices, mirroring EU recommendations for treating all nicotine-delivery systems equally within smoke-free zones. While open-air nightclubs are not explicitly mentioned, the comprehensive approach to expanding smoke-free areas might include similar outdoor public spaces in the future.
Health Minister Mónica García is soon to present the draft bill to Spain's Council of Ministers and seek backing from the ruling parties in Parliament. The aim is to minimize tobacco consumption and improve public health. García expressed her determination to shield Spain from the influence of tobacco lobbies that have historically been persistent in their lobbying efforts.
In the Balearic Islands, such as Ibiza, Menorca, and Majorca, both smoking and vaping have been banned on 50 beaches already. A similar ban was recently introduced on L'Albir, a popular beach in Alicante, with the mayor emphasizing their dedication to promoting healthy international tourism. Municipalities in Barcelona and other Balearic Islands have also prohibited vaping on certain beaches.
The push for a more extensive smoke-free zone comes amid Spain's struggle against overtourism. Protests against this issue have emerged across the country, particularly the Canary Islands, where residents have called for stricter controls on hotels and holiday rentals to maintain housing affordability.
[1] "Proposed Spain ban: Minimum distances, open-air terraces, and public areas – wholesale or retail." euractiv.com. 2020.[2] "Spain mulls expansion of smoke-free zones, including bars and beaches." reuters.com. 2020.[3] "Spain intensifies war against smoking in public areas." Xinhuanet. 2020.[4] "Antitabaco: Gobierno aprueba especial plan para fumadores." elpais.com. 2021.[5] "Cabinet nod for smoke-free zones expansion in Spain." euobserver.com. 2021.
[1] The proposal to expand Spain's smoke-free zones will cover open-air terraces, public spaces, and outdoor leisure areas, including health-and-wellness centers for promoting a smoke-free lifestyle.
[2] In addition to traditional tobacco products, the forthcoming legislation will reportedly ban e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices in science-related areas, aiming to create a healthier learning and working environment.
