Europe has seen a surge in protests against mass tourism in recent weeks, with “tourist terror” slogans and graffiti becoming commonplace in popular destinations such as Barcelona, Mallorca and Malaga. The protests are led by local residents who are unhappy with the influx of tourists, who are pushing up prices of everyday items and forcing them out of their homes. The situation is particularly tense in Spain, especially in the region of Catalonia, which has been hit hard by a long-term drought.
The issue highlights the delicate balance between leveraging a key economic asset – tourism – and protecting the environment and local livelihoods. Catalonia’s four-year drought recently saw some relief, coinciding with the peak tourist season. But the region faces the daunting task of managing limited water resources amid large numbers of visitors and preparing for another potentially dry winter.
Tourism and water management gap
Tourists are often warned with stickers and signs; however, local residents are fined. This fact highlights the need for more comprehensive measures by local governments and communities. It is absurd that citizens’ water use is closely monitored, while tourists are only given warnings. To ensure equitable water use and sustainability for all, information campaigns should be implemented in addition to fines for tourists. Governments and citizens must address the looming reality of climate change and find solutions.
Putting economy over sustainability
Tourism is a major contributor to the GDP of Spain, and especially Barcelona and Catalonia. Tourist spending will be €9.6 billion in 2022, accounting for more than 10% of local GDP and 5.4% of Catalonia’s overall GDP. However, this economic benefit often comes at a large environmental cost. Prioritizing tourism over sustainable practices has led to harsh measures against residents while leaving regulations loose for tourists, sparking local criticism. More sustainable solutions are needed to maintain the economic benefits without compromising environmental health.
Challenges in policy implementation and public perception
The longest-term drought, the worst on record in Catalonia, has exposed vulnerabilities and inequities in the allocation of water resources. Local authorities, such as the Catalan Institute of Water (ICRA) and the Catalan Water Agency (ACA), have recognized the need for stronger measures. Proposed solutions include increased investment in water production and management infrastructure, such as expanding water production plants and installing mobile desalination units along the Costa Brava. However, these measures require time and public buy-in. The recent drought has highlighted the urgent need for sustainable water management strategies to ensure the future resilience of both the tourism industry and local communities.
A sustainable solution that balances tourism and local needs
Tackling the problem of mass tourism, which displaces local people and strains resources, is essential to reducing conflict between tourism and local people and mitigating the risks of climate-induced water crises. A multifaceted approach will help achieve this balance.
Providing information to tourists and promoting sustainable tourism
Firstly, tourists need to be educated about the impact they have on locals and the environment. This can be achieved by carrying out comprehensive awareness campaigns at points of entry such as airports, train stations and ferry terminals in Barcelona and other parts of Catalonia, distributing information brochures, digital displays and QR codes linking to detailed guidelines on sustainable tourism activities.
Strategic location of water supply facilities
The addition of new water treatment facilities is important, but their placement should not harm the ecosystem. Desalination plants and water production units are important to Catalonia’s survival. But they must be strategically located to minimize their impact on the environment. For example, placing desalination units in strategic locations near ecologically sensitive areas like the Costa Brava could help prevent the erosion of Mediterranean sanctuaries.
Water management systems in lodging facilities
It is essential to have a robust water management system in place in hostels, hotels, and Airbnb accommodations. This can be achieved through a digital water management card system. Upon arrival, tourists can log into an online platform using a QR code provided upon entry. The platform tracks tourists’ water usage and penalties are assessed for overconsumption. Tourists must declare their accommodation and will be fined if they fail to do so or choose an unauthorised stay. The system not only regulates water usage but also ensures tourist accountability. Different tiers can be included based on the type of accommodation, with luxury hotels having stricter limits than budget hostels. Additionally, providing real-time feedback on water usage can encourage tourists to be more mindful about their consumption.
Increased surveillance and control of tourists
To ensure compliance, local governments should strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. More checks and balances can be put in place through mandatory declarations and information that hotels, hostels and Airbnb must collect from individuals. Regular inspections of accommodation and tourist facilities can identify and address violations. Local residents and industry players can act as ambassadors to promote sustainable practices among tourists and report violations.
In conclusion, by addressing the issues of mass tourism and implementing sustainable water management practices, Barcelona can reduce conflicts between tourists and local residents and peacefully mitigate the risk of a water crisis. Informing tourists, encouraging sustainable practices, strategically locating water facilities, and strengthening monitoring and enforcement are important steps to ameliorate this issue. These should therefore be the main concerns of the Catalan and Spanish governments.
