Spain's Prime Minister has urged citizens to ditch their neckties to help save energy and the planet. Pedro Sanchez made his plea at a press conference. He addressed journalists tieless, and called on Spaniards to follow his lead in ditching his tie. He stated: "I have asked all ministers and public decision-makers to [go tieless]. That means we can all save energy." He added: "I would also like to ask the private sector that…they should not wear a tie either because, in that way, we will all be contributing to the energy savings that are so necessary for our country."

Spain will soon adopt "urgent" energy-saving measures to tackle the climate crisis, and to cut its reliance on Russian gas. Other European countries are moving away from Russian fuel because of the Ukraine War. Sanchez's government has already restricted the use of air conditioners and heating appliances in workplaces. The recent heatwaves and rising energy prices have taken their toll in Spain. More than 500 people have died in the past two weeks because of the heat. Spain has also introduced a relief package of $9.2 billion to help people with energy bills.