Six stunning beaches in Ibiza had to be closed to bathers to the public after high levels of human poo was found in the sea last summer.
Officials released test results showing the levels of contamination on six beaches to mark World Ocean Day, just ahead of tourists returning to the White Isle.
The Observatory of Sustainability published the investigation which took place on the famous Balearic party Island of Ibiza, off the east coast of Spain, in 2019.
The environmental body reported that illegal quantities of faecal matter was discovered on six beaches in Ibiza.
The filthy water causes problems both for bathers and marine animals who inhabit the coast.
According to a press release, the observatory took 48 samples from beaches around the whole island in 2019.
They stated: “Six were shown to have quantities of faecal contamination superior to those legally permitted, which led to the prohibition of bathing.”
The beaches in question were Talamanca, Bahia de Sant Antoni, escollera de Sant Antoni, Es Pouet, Port de Sant Miquel, Platges de Comte.
Data from the Ibiza and Formentera Water Alliance showed that only 31 samples were rated excellent last year, almost 25% less than in 2010.
The observatory warned that the decrease in water quality highlights the insufficient infrastructure - especially in summer.
Now the observatory has warned that in order to protect marine life and the health of bathers, the island must “improve the sanitation and depuration and carry out a strict vigilance through quality controls."
