Residents in the Canary Islands are gearing up for a massive protest this weekend to voice their frustration with the negative impacts of overtourism on the local community. Organisers are expecting around 132,000 people to take to the streets of Tenerife to march against the issues caused by the influx of tourists and new residents to the area. Ivan, a member of the local environmental organisation ATAN and an activist within the protest movement, highlighted the strain on essential infrastructure like public transportation, waste management, and water supply due to the overwhelming number of visitors and new inhabitants.
The protest aims to address the environmental pollution and degradation, as well as the perpetuation of issues like poverty and vulnerability, fueled by urban development projects and corruption. Ivan urged UK tourists to consider alternative destinations with a smaller environmental and social impact to help alleviate the strain on the Canary Islands. The protesters are advocating for a more balanced and fair tourism industry that focuses on improving the quality of life for residents and preserving the environment to create a more sustainable future for the islands. As Tenerife and other popular destinations in the Canary Islands contemplate implementing a new tourist tax, the protesters have put forth 10 demands for a “fair, sustainable, and people-centered model” to address the current challenges faced by the community.
The marchers are calling for an immediate end to “illegal hotels” that prioritize private profits over collective well-being in Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. Additionally, they are pushing for a halt to new hotel developments, holiday rentals, housing projects, and healthcare rights to protect the environment and promote ecosystem restoration. The protesters are also advocating for food and energy sovereignty, as well as regulations to safeguard the beauty spots of the Canary Islands from further degradation caused by mega projects like railways, road expansions, ports, and airports designed to cater to increasing tourist and population pressures. The residents are united in their efforts to bring about positive change and create a more sustainable future for their beloved islands.
