Nowadays, popular festivals in Barcelona are a meeting point full of tradition, music and, of course, a good glass of wine or a beer. However, alcohol consumption at these celebrations presents significant public health challenges, especially when it comes to minors. Recently, the Diputació de Barcelona has taken matters into its own hands by offering courses specifically aimed at staff serving drinks at bars during these festivities. Let’s analyze how this initiative can change the dynamics of consumption at parties.
The current situation of alcohol consumption in adolescents
Alcohol consumption in adolescents, according to data provided by the Health Habits Survey of 4th ESO students, is worrying. It seems that almost 7 out of 10 young people have tried alcohol before the age of 14, with an alarmingly low average age for their first contact. Surprisingly, the figures reveal that girls are the earliest to start experimenting with drinking. This phenomenon is not isolated and responds to a social environment where drinking is seen as an inherent part of having fun.
Workshops for responsible consumption
Against this backdrop, Barcelona Provincial Council has decided to intervene by organizing 20 workshops throughout the year. These two-hour courses are designed for those working behind the bar at festivities, equipping them with tools and strategies to encourage more conscious consumption and, essentially, prevent underage drinking. Whether it’s identifying an adult attempting to purchase alcohol for a minor or refusing to serve in a respectful manner, trained staff can make a big difference.
In addition to learning how to handle these situations, the courses also suggest additional practices that bars can adopt. For example, offering a variety of non-alcoholic beverages at attractive prices, avoiding tempting offers such as happy hours, and stopping the sale of alcohol in the last hour of the party. These are simple but effective recommendations that could have a major impact on the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Support beyond workshops
The Diputación’s commitment does not end with the workshops. They offer technical and economic support to different city councils that wish to implement their own preventive measures. An example of their commitment to the issue is the workshop “Demystify alcohol“, aimed at students in 3rd and 4th ESO with the aim of delaying the onset of consumption. In addition, there is the “Turn alcohol around” exhibition, which tours virtually and physically through schools, raising awareness among young people of the risks associated with the abuse of this substance.
Contributing to a global objective
It is important to note that this action is not an isolated or local measure. It is framed within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically those promoting health and wellness and responsible consumption. In 2015, the United Nations General Assembly established these goals as part of its global agenda for 2030. The Diputació de Barcelona has assumed its responsibility in the fulfillment of these goals, aligning its efforts with this long-term vision.
Expected impact
So what can we expect to change with this initiative? While the parties are just getting started with these measures, it is hoped that by increasing awareness of responsible drinking, a significant reduction in underage drinking will be achieved. In the long term, educational initiatives could also lead to a cultural transformation, where fun is possible without excesses, thus fostering a safer and healthier environment for all attendees.
Implementing a holiday education plan is a step in the right direction. By empowering the staff behind the bar, Barcelona Provincial Council is planting the seed of positive change that could resonate with future generations. Perhaps, one day, looking back and thinking about these decisions will make us proud of how things began to change, one bar at a time.
