As from 1 January 2026, smoking at Golden Bay (Il-Mixquqa) in Malta and Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo will only be allowed in designated areas.
During the closing of the Saving Our Blue Summer Edition campaign, Environment Minister Miriam Dalli and Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela announced that smoking will be prohibited on these beaches, except in designated zones equipped with ashtrays that will be cleaned regularly.
Cigarette butts, lighters, and tobacco waste are among the most commonly collected litter on beaches, threatening both marine life and Malta’s natural beauty.
“This measure was inspired by conversations I had with children. It is an environmental step addressing cigarette butts that end up in the sea and take a long time to decompose, potentially leading to a healthier coastal environment. With this move, Malta is joining other countries that have introduced such restrictions. It is another way in which we are protecting our marine environment for the common good,” said Minister Dalli.
Minister Abela described this pilot project as an important first step in promoting smoke-free public open spaces. “These restrictions align with our Ministry’s new policy framework aimed at reducing smoking to prevent non-communicable diseases. At the same time, we are protecting the environment,” he said.
Enforcement will be carried out in collaboration between the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA), the Health Department, the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA), the Local Enforcement System Agency (LESA), and the Malta Police Force. Violators will face a fine of €150.
This measure was announced during a public event organised by the Ministry for the Environment in collaboration with the Malta Football Association (MFA). The event marked the conclusion of the Saving Our Blue Summer Edition campaign and the launch of Malta’s Sustainable Development Action Days, under the theme “Your Actions, Our Future”.
The family event included interactive games, creative workshops, live performances, and sports activities, all promoting an active and sustainable lifestyle.
Information stands and interactive exhibits were also set up by entities within the Ministry for the Environment, showcasing practical ways to save water, reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and encourage sustainable living.
The Sustainable Development Action Days began on 18 September and will continue until 8 October, coinciding with the European Sustainable Development Week. During this period, government entities, NGOs, businesses, and citizens across Malta and Gozo will come together to promote the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), through initiatives that strengthen communities and protect the natural environment.
Photo: MEEC/MHA
