Category Archives: News

Offshore wind energy in Northern Menorca

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In February 2023, Spain approved the Maritime Spatial Plans (MSP) to regulate various marine activities across the country, including renewable energy installations. These plans designated two areas north of Menorca (LEBA 2 and LEBA 3) as the only spaces in the Balearic Islands where offshore wind projects could be developed.

This year, a French company introduced the “Gregal Offshore Wind Project,” planned for the LEBA 2 area. GOB Menorca has sent a report to the Ministry of Ecological Transition with several considerations.

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Water in Maó: opening more windows

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Commenting on a sensitive topic always has its risks, yet advancing environmental issues has never been easy.

For weeks, there has been an ongoing discussion about the water crisis in Maó, stemming from the failure to notify citizens when an excess of nitrates was detected in the municipal water supply. The political cost of this incident is clear, with resignations, an extraordinary council meeting, and the launch of further investigations. Many are watching closely.

For these reasons, the GOB waited a few days before discussing the broader consequences of this water crisis: the economic, environmental, and social uncertainties it brings.

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Maó’s water: an urgent and important matter

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Elevated nitrate levels in Maó’s tap water bring a series of urgent issues that must be addressed with proper information.

Beyond these urgent matters lie several key causes—the root of the problem, which should not be overshadowed by media headlines.

The GOB advocates for a tariff revision, reducing rates for reasonable consumption and raising them significantly for excessive usage.

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Rationalizing coastal management for its improvement

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This summer has been one of the most impacted by nautical overcrowding. Various accidents in the Balearic Islands, caused by the high density of boats and the behavior of some vessels, have increased the sense of vulnerability among those who want to safely enjoy the marine environment.

Most users of the coast don’t rely on motorized vessels. They are swimmers, snorkelers, surfers, or kayakers, and they feel threatened by an overwhelmed coastline.

GOB has submitted objections to the “Preliminary Draft Law for the Integral Management and Regulation of the Balearic Islands’ Coastline.” This legislative proposal by the Balearic Government raises several questions that need to be addressed.

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Dangerous reclaimed water for irrigation

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The chlorides in the treated water intended for irrigation in Sant Lluís double the maximum permitted levels. Over half of the water reaching the treatment plant may also contain other contaminants. Seven public supply wells could be affected if contamination occurs.

The GOB has submitted objections to the reclaimed water irrigation project that the Balearic Government’s Agriculture Department is promoting in Sant Lluís, warning of its lack of guarantees and the high contamination risks associated with it.

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Excursion to Son Blanc Nou, Saturday, October 26

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With the arrival of autumn, the land stewardship excursions are back! We kick off the season with a visit to one of the newest additions to GOB’s Custòdia Agrària program: Son Blanc Nou, a farm known for its circular model, aiming to produce all the resources it consumes. Participants will have the chance to explore the farm and learn about its agricultural management, followed by a tasting of local products.

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53 illegal houses with tourist licenses

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GOB has called on the Menorca Island Council to review the tourist permits granted to 53 buildings that lack recognized urban legality. Such a situation is in direct conflict with the law, and the group requests an official review, as these licenses would likely be considered void or based on declarations that fail to comply with current regulations.

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GOB Invites You to the Community Organization Fair

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This Saturday, October 5th, at the sports park in Alaior, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the GOB will participate in the 9th Annual Community Organization Fair of Menorca. It will be a fun-filled morning where a variety of local associations will host workshops and activities aligned with their missions. Through engaging activities, the event aims to highlight the importance of the island’s nonprofit network and encourage everyone to get involved.

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