Galicia establishes Spain's largest smoke-free beach network

Galicia has established the largest network of smoke-free beaches in Spain, with approximately 250 protected areas, representing one in every four tobacco-free beaches in the country. The initiative, known as 'Praias sen Fume', has grown from 19 municipalities in 2016 to 85 municipalities today, including 39 river beaches.

Health Minister Antonio Gómez Caamaño announced that the regional government is working with the Galician Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (Fegamp) to develop common regulations. This effort aims to provide legal certainty and standardized sanctions for local councils, following successful models used in cities like Barcelona and San Sebastián.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat smoking and protect minors. This includes a pioneering regional law that prohibits the sale of electronic cigarettes and vapes to minors, positioning Galicia at the forefront of European public health efforts regarding addictive behaviors.