Mass Tourism Protests Erupt in Tenerife as Locals Demand Change

Thousands of residents in Tenerife took to the streets in a massive protest against the growing tourism industry on the Spanish island. The demonstrations were ignited by a recent vote in Spain‘s parliament that gave the green light to the construction of a hotel and an eco-resort, causing outrage among protestors.

The proposed 400-villa resort, known as Cuna del Alma, has raised concerns due to its potential environmental impact on the delicate southern coast of Tenerife. Activists, led by the group Canarias Se Agota, have been at the forefront of the movement, demanding a halt to all tourism development projects across the Canary Islands.

Amid the protests, calls have been made for stricter regulations in the tourism sector, including a temporary suspension of new short-term rentals and discussions on implementing a tourism tax to address the adverse effects of mass tourism on the local community.

Joining the cause are prominent environmental organizations such as Greenpeace, WWF, and Friends of the Earth, who have highlighted the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices. The protests have also gained momentum in Madrid and Barcelona, with demonstrators showing solidarity with the residents of Tenerife.

In a bid to preserve the island’s natural beauty and alleviate the strain on local resources, protestors are urging authorities to reconsider the current tourism model. The rapid expansion of tourism in the Canary Islands has led to soaring housing costs, pushing many residents into poverty or social exclusion.

Data from the National Statistics Institute further underscore the pressing challenges faced by the region, with a significant portion of the population struggling to afford basic necessities. In light of these concerns, the protests in Tenerife serve as a poignant reminder of the need for a more sustainable approach to tourism in the Canary Islands.