A British individual who relocated to Lanzarote has pointed out the holiday destination’s ‘biggest tourist problem’ and is appealing to visitors to help alleviate the issue.

David Gainford, better known online as Mr TravelON, is now based in the Canary Islands and shares his thoughts on tourism in the region.

He recently released a video highlighting an increasing environmental concern in Lanzarote that seems to be overlooked: the ‘love lock explosion’.

What started as a heartfelt gesture has led to plastic waste, damaged safety railings, and unsightly damage, particularly around Playa Flamingo in Playa Blanca, as described by David.

He says that local shops are now selling plastic locks and permanent markers encouraging tourists to tag Lanzarote. 

But it’s having a negative impact on the island, he believes. 

David shared the video to his 75,000 subscribers on YouTube.

He stated: ‘Lanzarote – a paradise to visit. Stunning sunrises, an ideal romantic spot for couples. It’s a perfect testament to loving someone.

‘What is not a great way to show love is love locks. It’s time that I made a stand on these.’

David added: ‘It’s essentially vandalism.’

Love locks are padlocks secured to railings by individuals wanting to declare their affection. Typically, a couple’s names or initials with the date are etched onto the padlock, and its key is discarded to represent endless love.

David shows footage of what he dubs ‘the worst part’, where railings have actually fallen down as a result of the locks.

‘It really is getting beyond a joke,’ David said. ‘Lanzarote is a beautiful place, but it’s now being ruined by this.

‘Love locks have also been in Lanzarote and the Canary Islands for quite a while, and they never really caused a problem.’

Originally, genuine locks were used for this ritual. However, as David explains, ‘someone saw this as a money-making opportunity and began selling plastic love locks. They’re unsightly. Over time, they fade and corrode.’

‘This is plastic pollution at its highest. I’m asking the environmentalists – are you going to tackle the problem that is staring you right in the face?’

David says people are now putting up locks everywhere they can, causing a snowball effect. He says: ‘It needs to stop, and it needs to stop now.’

He cites the government’s advertising campaign on the island, asking tourists to be respectful of the environment in Lanzarote.

He said: ‘I honestly don’t know why people think putting a plastic love lock with a message written in a permanent Sharpie pen is an act of love. In my opinion, it’s an act of vandalism. People say, “It’s a nice touch, it’s not hurting anybody”, but it really is.’

As a solution, he suggests stopping tourist shops selling the plastic padlocks. He is also calling on action from the council, environmental groups and tourists to deal with the issue.