The summer season is kicking off on the beaches of Barcelona and its surroundings, marking the start of a ritual eagerly awaited by many. However, the influx of bathers reopens the annual debate on the prohibition of smoking in these public spaces, a measure aimed at ensuring a healthy, smoke-free environment.

The Provincial Council of Barcelona reminds that tobacco is harmful to health, both for smokers and for those exposed to smoke, and highlights the environmental impact of cigarette butts on the sand and sea. Since 2022, smoking has been banned on the beaches of the Catalan capital, with a fine of 30 euros for non-compliance.

This measure, already in place in municipalities such as Sitges since 2021 and Vilanova i la Geltrú since 2020, is extended this year to new locations including Premià de Mar, Vilassar de Mar, Cubelles, Sant Andreu de Llavaneres, Sant Vicenç de Montalt, Sant Pol de Mar, Vilanova i la Geltrú (extending the ban to all its beaches), and Mataró. These towns have previously conducted awareness campaigns.

In contrast, vaping remains permitted on Barcelona's beaches. The High Court of Justice of Catalonia (TSJC) overturned the municipal prohibition attempt, ruling that the city council does not have the legal authority to ban e-cigarettes in these areas. The ultimate goal of the Provincial Council of Barcelona is for the 107 beaches in the province to be spaces of well-being, sustainability, and smoke-free.