Published on
September 22, 2025
In 2024, Malta welcomed 23 million visitors and generated $9.26 billion in tourism revenue, and is now promoting sustainable tourism by implementing smoking bans on beaches. Malta, alongside the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and other countries, is leading the charge to reduce cigarette waste and protect marine ecosystems. Starting in 2026, smoking will only be permitted in designated areas on Golden Bay and Ramla l-Ħamra, two of the island’s most popular beaches.
Countries like the US and UK have already adopted similar policies, with regions such as California and Wales leading the way in creating cleaner, more eco-friendly beaches. Canada and Mexico have followed suit, implementing smoking bans in Vancouver and Puerto Vallarta to safeguard their coastal environments. France and Spain are also introducing beach smoking bans to protect marine life and reduce environmental pollution.
By joining this global movement, Malta is positioning itself as a leader in responsible tourism, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences. This collective effort aims to preserve natural resources while offering visitors a cleaner, greener destination.
Malta Leads the Way in Eco-Friendly Beach Tourism
Malta is leading the way in promoting sustainable tourism with its new smoking bans on two of its most popular beaches, Golden Bay and Ramla l-Ħamra. Starting January 1, 2026, smoking will only be permitted in designated areas, helping to reduce pollution from cigarette butts and tobacco waste. This move is part of Malta’s broader strategy to safeguard its natural beauty and encourage eco-friendly travel. By limiting smoking on these beaches, Malta is setting a strong example for responsible tourism, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers.
These efforts align with global tourism trends focused on sustainability and responsible consumption, ensuring that Malta remains a pristine destination for future generations. The initiative also supports the country’s sustainable development goals, contributing to the protection of marine ecosystems and the promotion of green tourism practices. As Malta continues to attract eco-tourists, it is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism in the Mediterranean region.
Malta: Prohibited & Restricted Items
CategoryDetailsDrugs & NarcoticsAll illegal drugs are strictly banned. Possession or importation can lead to severe penalties.Meat & Dairy ProductsFresh, cured, processed, and dried meats, as well as dairy products from non-EU countries, are prohibited. Special certifications are required for certain specialized dairy products.Firearms & WeaponsFully automatic firearms, silencers, sniper rifles, rocket launchers, grenade launchers, and high-capacity magazines are prohibited. Other firearms require specific permits.Hazardous MaterialsExplosives, fireworks, hazardous chemicals, flammable substances, and toxic materials are banned.Endangered SpeciesProducts like ivory, rhino horn, certain exotic animal skins, furs, and marine life products from endangered species are prohibited under CITES regulations.Pornographic MaterialsObscene materials in any form, including books, magazines, films, and video tapes, are banned.Plants, Seeds & SoilRequire appropriate phytosanitary certificates to prove they are pest and disease-free.Fresh FoodFresh fruits, vegetables, and meats need to be declared and may require import permits.Radio TransmittersCertain communication equipment like unlicensed walkie-talkies and satellite phones require prior import permission.Controlled MedicationsPrescription medications containing controlled substances require documentation and may need additional clearance.Tobacco & AlcoholDuty-free allowances exist, but quantities exceeding limits must be declared and may incur duties.France: Nationwide Outdoor Smoking Ban
France is taking bold steps to reduce smoking-related environmental damage by implementing a smoking ban in outdoor public spaces frequented by children. Starting July 1, 2025, smoking will be prohibited in areas such as beaches, parks, public gardens, bus shelters, and outdoor spaces near schools. This initiative is primarily aimed at protecting children from second-hand smoke and reducing litter from cigarette butts, which are a significant environmental pollutant. Violators will face fines up to €135 for smoking in restricted areas. This is part of France’s broader strategy to reduce tobacco consumption and limit the harmful effects of smoking on public health, aligning with the country’s commitment to creating cleaner public spaces. The law is a response to the growing awareness of the environmental impact of cigarette waste, as cigarette butts are among the most common litter items found on beaches globally.
France: Prohibited & Restricted ItemsItem/ActivityBan DetailsSmoking on BeachesStarting 2026, smoking will only be allowed in designated areas at beaches such as Golden Bay and Ramla l-Ħamra.Single-Use PlasticsBanned in 2020, including items such as plastic cutlery, straws, and plates to reduce pollution.Plastic BagsBanned in 2016, with a complete ban on plastic bags for shopping and packaging.Destruction of BiodiversityCertain activities that harm protected species and ecosystems are strictly banned.Endangered Species TradeFrance has strict regulations banning the trade and transport of endangered species and their products.Non-Eco-Friendly TransportNew rules promote electric vehicles and restrict certain fuel-powered vehicles in cities like Paris.Illegal Dumping of WasteFrance enforces heavy fines for unauthorized waste dumping in protected areas.
Spain: Regional Beach Smoking Bans
In Spain, various regions have introduced smoking bans on beaches to reduce environmental pollution and promote healthier public spaces. The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, have implemented smoking restrictions on 28 beaches. The city of Barcelona has also banned smoking on all its beaches, with fines of up to €30 for violators. These restrictions were introduced to improve beach cleanliness, protect marine life, and create a more pleasant environment for beachgoers. Cigarette butts and tobacco waste pose a significant threat to the marine ecosystem, as the plastic filters take years to break down. This initiative aligns with Spain’s push for more sustainable and eco-conscious tourism, especially in its coastal regions, where tourism is a major contributor to the local economy. By encouraging beachgoers to refrain from smoking in public spaces, Spain is aiming to safeguard its beaches and enhance the experience for both locals and visitors.Item/ActivityBan DetailsSmoking on BeachesSmoking is banned on several beaches across Spain, including popular destinations like the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands.Single-Use PlasticsBanned in 2021, including single-use plastic straws, cutlery, and plates, as part of Spain’s commitment to reduce plastic waste.Plastic BagsBanned in 2021, with plastic bags being replaced by reusable alternatives in retail and grocery stores.Destruction of Protected SpeciesActivities that harm endangered species or their habitats are banned, including hunting and illegal poaching.Non-Eco-Friendly TransportCities like Madrid and Barcelona are implementing low-emission zones, restricting access to non-electric vehicles in certain areas.Waste Dumping in Protected AreasStrict laws prohibit illegal waste dumping in natural reserves and protected areas, with heavy fines for violations.Import/Export of Endangered SpeciesSpain enforces the EU regulations banning the trade, import, and export of endangered species and their products.
Thailand: Smoking Bans on Popular Tourist Beaches
Thailand has made significant strides in promoting sustainable tourism by introducing smoking bans on at least 20 popular tourist beaches. This includes well-known beaches such as those in Pattaya, Jomtien, Phuket, Cha-Am, Hua Hin, and Bang Saen. The ban was enforced in 2018, with violators facing hefty penalties, including fines of up to 100,000 baht (approximately $3,000 USD) and imprisonment for up to one year. The goal of this initiative is to eliminate cigarette litter, which is not only unsightly but also harmful to marine life. Thailand’s beaches are among the most visited in Southeast Asia, and the country has recognized the environmental and aesthetic benefits of clean beaches for both locals and international visitors. The ban is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to promote eco-tourism and protect the delicate marine ecosystems that attract millions of tourists annually.Item/ActivityBan DetailsSmoking on BeachesSmoking is banned on certain beaches in Thailand, including popular areas like Phuket and Krabi, to reduce litter and protect marine life.Single-Use PlasticsBanned in 2020, including single-use plastic straws, plastic bags, and styrofoam containers, to reduce plastic waste and pollution.Plastic BagsThailand imposed a ban on single-use plastic bags in 2020, with retail outlets no longer allowed to provide plastic bags for shopping.Illegal LoggingStrict regulations and enforcement against illegal logging in Thailand’s forests to preserve biodiversity and prevent deforestation.Non-Eco-Friendly VehiclesCities like Bangkok are introducing measures to restrict older, polluting vehicles and encourage the use of electric and hybrid cars.Harmful PesticidesCertain hazardous pesticides and chemicals are banned in agriculture to protect local ecosystems and human health.Dumping Waste in WaterwaysIllegal waste dumping, especially in rivers and oceans, is heavily regulated with significant fines and penalties for violators.Wildlife TradeThailand enforces strict laws banning the trade of endangered species and their parts, as part of its commitment to wildlife conservation.Use of Fireworks in Certain AreasBanned in specific tourist areas to reduce air pollution and noise, especially during certain festivals or events.
United Kingdom: Smoke-Free Beaches in Wales
In the United Kingdom, Wales has implemented voluntary smoking bans on several of its beaches to promote eco-friendly tourism. Beaches such as Benllech Beach, Trearddur Bay, and Caswell Bay are among those that have introduced these measures, which aim to reduce cigarette waste and safeguard the natural beauty of coastal environments. This initiative is part of a growing movement within Wales to protect its marine life and preserve the cleanliness of its beaches, which are popular with both locals and tourists. Cigarette butts, often left behind on beaches, pose a significant threat to the environment as they can take up to 12 years to decompose, leaching toxic chemicals into the sand and sea. By reducing cigarette litter, Wales is contributing to the global effort to tackle pollution, encouraging beachgoers to adopt more responsible behaviors. The success of these measures has inspired other regions to consider similar smoking restrictions.Item/ActivityBan DetailsSmoking in Enclosed Public SpacesSmoking is banned in enclosed public spaces, including pubs, restaurants, and offices, as part of public health initiatives.Single-Use PlasticsBanned in 2020, including items such as plastic straws, stirrers, and cotton buds to reduce plastic pollution.Plastic BagsBanned in 2015, with a 5p charge for single-use plastic bags, aiming to reduce plastic waste and encourage reuse.Pesticides and HerbicidesSome harmful pesticides and herbicides are banned, particularly those that threaten bee populations and ecosystems.Non-Eco-Friendly Vehicles in CitiesCertain cities, such as London, have introduced Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), charging vehicles that do not meet environmental standards.Illegal Dumping of WasteStrict laws and fines are in place to prevent illegal waste dumping, with severe penalties for offenders.Import/Export of Endangered SpeciesThe UK enforces the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) agreement, banning the trade of endangered species and their products.Coal Heating SystemsNew coal heating systems are banned in an effort to reduce air pollution and move towards cleaner energy sources.
United States: Local Beach Smoking Bans
In the United States, several localities have taken the initiative to ban smoking on beaches to improve public health and protect the environment. Rehoboth Beach in Delaware was one of the first U.S. beaches to introduce a smoking ban in 2014. Other regions, such as Hawaii, California, and Florida, have followed suit, with many popular beaches adopting smoking restrictions in recent years. These bans aim to reduce littering, particularly cigarette butts, which are often found in high volumes on beaches. The initiative has grown in popularity as beach communities recognize the environmental damage caused by cigarette waste, which harms marine life and pollutes local ecosystems. Local governments, especially in tourist-heavy areas, are emphasizing the importance of clean, healthy beach environments for both visitors and residents. While fines for smoking on beaches vary by location, they generally range from $50 to $100, encouraging tourists to respect the beach environment.Item/ActivityBan DetailsSingle-Use PlasticsBanned or restricted in various states, including California, Hawaii, and New York, with a focus on plastic straws, bags, and utensils to reduce plastic pollution.Plastic BagsMany states and local jurisdictions have banned or imposed fees on single-use plastic bags to reduce environmental impact, starting with California in 2016.Smoking in Enclosed Public SpacesSmoking is banned in public indoor spaces nationwide, including restaurants, bars, and workplaces, to protect public health.Use of Certain PesticidesThe use of harmful pesticides like chlorpyrifos is banned in some states due to their environmental and health risks, particularly for agricultural workers.Coal Mining in Certain AreasIn certain national parks and protected areas, coal mining activities are restricted to preserve ecosystems and reduce carbon emissions.Shark FinningShark finning is banned in many states to protect endangered shark species and prevent the exploitation of marine life.Single-Use StyrofoamBanned in various cities and states, including New York City, due to its environmental harm and non-biodegradability.Wildlife TraffickingThe U.S. enforces strict regulations under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species), banning the trade of endangered species.Illegal DumpingStrong penalties exist across states for illegal dumping of waste in public or protected areas, including national parks.Non-Eco-Friendly VehiclesMany cities, including Los Angeles and New York, are implementing low-emission zones or restrictions on older, non-environmentally friendly vehicles.
Canada: Smoking Bans on Beaches for Cleaner, Greener Tourism
Canada has implemented smoking bans on several beaches across the country, particularly in eco-conscious provinces like British Columbia and Quebec. The city of Vancouver was one of the pioneers, banning smoking on all city beaches to prevent cigarette butt pollution and protect the natural beauty of its coastal environments. Similar bans have been enforced in Montreal and Toronto, where smoking is prohibited in popular beach areas such as Kew-Balmy Beach and Cherry Beach. These measures aim to keep beaches clean, reduce environmental harm, and protect marine life, as cigarette butts are often one of the most littered items on the beaches, taking up to 12 years to decompose.
Canada’s smoking bans on beaches are part of the country’s broader environmental conservation efforts, aligning with its commitment to reducing pollution and promoting eco-tourism. Cigarette butts contain harmful chemicals like nicotine, tar, and heavy metals, which are toxic to wildlife and the ecosystem. Local authorities also use these bans as opportunities to educate the public on sustainable practices, encouraging eco-friendly behavior among beachgoers. As Canada’s popularity as an eco-tourism destination grows, these measures highlight the country’s commitment to preserving its natural assets for future generations of both residents and international tourists. Fines for smoking in restricted beach areas vary by province, with some cities imposing fines of up to $500 CAD for violators.\Item/ActivityBan DetailsSingle-Use PlasticsBanned nationwide in 2022, including plastic straws, stirrers, bags, cutlery, and takeout containers, to reduce plastic pollution and environmental harm.Plastic BagsBanned in several provinces and municipalities, including Quebec and British Columbia, with an emphasis on reducing plastic waste and encouraging reusable alternatives.Smoking in Enclosed Public SpacesSmoking is banned in indoor public spaces across the country, including workplaces, restaurants, and bars, to protect public health and reduce secondhand smoke exposure.Coal-Fired Power PlantsThe federal government is phasing out coal-fired power plants by 2030 as part of Canada’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate goals.Sale of Cosmetic Products Containing MicrobeadsBanned in 2018, the sale of personal care products containing microbeads, which contribute to water pollution and harm marine life.Illegal Wildlife TradeCanada enforces strict laws to combat the illegal trade of endangered species and their products, following international agreements like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).Single-Use StyrofoamBanned in some provinces and cities, such as Vancouver and Toronto, due to its non-biodegradable nature and harmful impact on the environment.Use of Certain PesticidesSome harmful pesticides, such as neonicotinoids, are restricted or banned due to their negative effects on pollinators and ecosystems.Illegal Dumping in National ParksStrict penalties are imposed for the illegal dumping of waste, particularly in national parks and protected areas, to preserve natural habitats and prevent pollution.Non-Eco-Friendly VehiclesMany provinces, such as Ontario and British Columbia, are offering incentives for electric vehicles and restricting the use of high-emission vehicles in certain areas.
Mexico: Growing Focus on Sustainable Tourism with Beach Smoking Bans
Mexico, known for its stunning beaches like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya, has also embraced the trend of banning smoking on its beaches to safeguard the environment and promote sustainable tourism. Popular tourist destinations such as Tulum and Cozumel have introduced smoking restrictions on beaches in recent years to combat the pollution caused by cigarette butts, which are harmful to marine life and the coastal ecosystem. The ban is especially significant in Mexico’s protected marine environments, like the Mesoamerican Reef, where cigarette waste poses a threat to biodiversity.
The municipality of Puerto Vallarta was one of the first regions in Mexico to impose smoking restrictions on its beaches. These measures aim to keep the beaches pristine and reduce littering, especially in popular tourist areas that attract millions of visitors annually. Mexico’s smoking bans are aligned with global trends in eco-tourism, as the country continues to grow as a leader in promoting responsible travel and environmental sustainability. The government has also invested in awareness campaigns, educating tourists about the importance of preserving the country’s natural beauty.
The fines for smoking on beaches vary depending on the location, with penalties ranging from 500 to 2,000 pesos (approximately $25-$100 USD). These bans, alongside other sustainable tourism initiatives such as promoting eco-friendly accommodations and waste reduction, reflect Mexico’s increasing commitment to balancing tourism growth with environmental responsibility.Item/ActivityBan DetailsSingle-Use PlasticsBanned nationwide in 2020, including plastic straws, bags, utensils, and Styrofoam containers, to reduce plastic pollution and encourage reusable alternatives.Plastic BagsBanned in many states and municipalities, such as Mexico City, where retailers are required to stop using plastic bags and encourage eco-friendly alternatives.Smoking in Enclosed Public SpacesSmoking is banned in indoor public spaces such as restaurants, bars, and workplaces to protect public health and reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.Shark FinningBanned in 2020, with strict penalties for shark finning to protect shark populations and ensure sustainable marine ecosystems.Single-Use StyrofoamBanned in various cities, including Mexico City, due to its environmental harm and non-biodegradability, encouraging alternatives like paper or biodegradable options.Dumping Waste in Protected AreasStrict laws prohibit the illegal dumping of waste in protected natural areas, including forests and national parks, with heavy fines for violations.Illegal Wildlife TradeMexico enforces stringent regulations under the General Wildlife Law, banning the illegal trade of endangered species and their products to protect biodiversity.Harmful PesticidesThe use of certain harmful pesticides, such as those that threaten
Other Notable Countries with Smoking Bans on Beaches
Countries like Greece, Italy, and Australia have also begun exploring or implementing similar measures, particularly in highly touristic coastal regions. Greece, for instance, has started to ban smoking on popular beaches in areas such as Crete and Rhodes, following the success of similar initiatives in other Mediterranean destinations. In Italy, regions like Venice and the Amalfi Coast have introduced smoke-free zones on beaches to protect their marine ecosystems and promote sustainable tourism practices. Australia’s Queensland state has introduced smoking restrictions at beaches to improve the cleanliness of its coastal areas, which are a major draw for eco-conscious travelers. These countries are part of a larger trend of integrating sustainable practices into tourism strategies, addressing both environmental conservation and public health concerns.
In 2024, Malta saw 23 million visitors and $9.26 billion in tourism revenue, now leading the charge in sustainable tourism with new bans. Joining the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and others, Malta is taking bold steps to protect the environment while boosting tourism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the collective efforts of Malta, the US, UK, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and other countries in implementing smoking bans on beaches represent a significant step forward in the global movement towards sustainable tourism. These initiatives aim to protect natural environments, reduce pollution, and promote eco-friendly travel experiences for future generations. By embracing responsible tourism practices, these nations are not only improving the quality of their beaches but also setting an example for other destinations to follow. As more tourists seek destinations that align with their environmental values, these efforts will help ensure a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for global tourism. Through collaboration, education, and continued innovation, the tourism industry can thrive while protecting the planet.
