At least 50,000 protestors gathered in Tenerife, a Spanish island, to call for a temporary limit on the number of tourists visiting the region. They argue that tourism has driven up living costs, negatively impacted the environment, and caused housing prices to skyrocket. The protestors, who marched peacefully through Santa Cruz, carried signs with slogans such as “CanariasTieneUneLimit” (Canary Islands have a limit) and chanted, “if we are living from tourism then why are we not rich?”. Despite their concerns, they clarified that they are not against tourism but want to make it more sustainable to protect the island’s beauty for both locals and visitors.
Tenerife, known for being a popular tourist destination, attracted over 5.8 million visitors in 2022, while the entire Canary Islands region welcomed more than 12 million tourists. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the region’s economy, with foreign tourists spending over £17.4 billion in 2023. However, locals believe that the industry’s growth has had adverse effects on their quality of life, with rising living costs and environmental issues being major concerns. The protestors, including young activists like 21-year-old Jamie Quintero, emphasize the need for a balance between tourism and preserving the island’s natural beauty.
The President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, pushed back against the protests, dismissing them as “tourist-phobia”. He acknowledged the importance of the tourism industry but recognized the need for more controls as it continues to expand. Clavijo stressed that unregulated growth could lead to issues such as unchecked hotel developments. Protestors have also expressed frustration with instances of anti-tourist graffiti on the island and staged previous actions like hunger strikes to draw attention to their concerns. They hope to change the narrative around tourism on the island and advocate for sustainable practices to protect Tenerife’s environment.
The demonstrations in Tenerife come at a time when tourism is a vital sector for the Canary Islands, contributing significantly to the region’s GDP. While many locals depend on tourism for their livelihood, the protestors argue that the industry’s unchecked growth is causing more harm than good. They call for a reevaluation of current practices to ensure that tourism benefits everyone, including the natural environment. As the protests gain momentum, authorities are being urged to listen to the concerns of the locals and work towards a more sustainable future for tourism in Tenerife.
Despite the criticism and tensions around the tourism industry, Tenerife officials recognize the importance of tourism to the region’s economy but acknowledge the need for responsible growth and sustainable practices. Addressing issues like housing costs, environmental impact, and overcrowding are essential steps towards creating a better balance between tourism and preserving the island’s unique ecosystem. As the protests highlight the community’s concerns, stakeholders are encouraged to work together to find solutions that benefit both locals and visitors, ensuring a prosperous future for Tenerife while safeguarding its natural beauty. The protests serve as a call to action for responsible tourism practices that prioritize sustainability and respect for the environment in Tenerife and beyond.
