Canary Islands: High fines for taking stones on the “Popcorn” beach. Tourists should actually be aware that the pebbles are part of the ecosystem and must be preserved.
In Lanzarote alone, there is a loss of 1,000 kilograms (about a ton) of natural materials from protected areas every year. In Fuerteventura, 4.5 tons of stones, shells and sand collected at airport in 2022 alone. For small amounts that were stolen there is said to be a fine of 150 to 600 euros. However, for larger quantities, fines can reach up to 3,000 euros.