People jetting off to Spain this summer are being warned over a common habit that could land them in hot water while on their holidays.
A crackdown is taking place on 28 beaches across the Balearic islands, including Mallorca and Ibiza, with residents and tourists alike now banned from smoking. The increase in "smoke-free zones" is part of a major plan to improve people's health and slash the huge problem of cigarette butts being left on the sand.
There are no fines for those who are caught lighting up as the people behind the scheme are hoping to appeal to members of the public's sense of responsibility, the Mirror reports.
READ MORE: Spain travel warning if you plan to visit the beach on your holiday
This is unlike similar schemes in the likes of Barcelona, which introduced fines last year for tourists caught smoking on the beach.
More than six million people in the UK currently smoke, according to the most recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Consumption said: "The objective of the campaign is to create a network of healthy beaches, understanding the Balearic coast as a playful space for the enjoyment of outdoor activities that enriches the health of the people who come, promoting smoke-free spaces.
"Today, tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death worldwide. Exposure to smoke from tobacco products has been shown to cause health problems similar to those caused by tobacco use."
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