Views: 30
When faced with several options, we often weigh the pros and cons of each. That is, we consider what we gain by choosing a certain option versus what we lose by rejecting another. Economists call this the opportunity cost.
Sometimes, this calculation is simple and obvious. But other times, it involves more complex factors—like when short-term benefits contradict long-term consequences or when personal gains come at the expense of others or the environment.
Views: 35
A case of illegal and recurrent tourist rental activity on rural land raises doubts about the effectiveness of current penalties for unauthorized activities of this kind.
This example highlights the need to reflect on the issue of excessive tourism pressure in Menorca. It is becoming clear that strengthening inspections alone will not suffice if the penalties imposed are not significant enough to deter offenders.
More rentals mean more tourism congestion
Views: 40
400 million years ago, much was already happening on Earth. Vast land masses, quite different from the continents we know today, were releasing sediments that would drift into the sea. Imagine tiny particles of clay, carried by wind or rain, slowly sinking and layering on top of each other over eons.
Views: 42
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.
Views: 77
An excessive number of vehicles, overcrowded spaces, water shortages, and increased energy pollution are all consequences of Menorca’s growing touristification. When combined with housing difficulties and a gradual drop in per capita income, it is clear that the island’s tourism model needs rethinking.
On World Tourism Day, the GOB reflects on the growing social unrest in many nearby tourist hotspots.
Views: 65
The first drawn depictions of Neanderthals portrayed them more like gorillas than humans. For decades, this close relative, with whom our species coexisted for thousands of years, was considered to be a primitive being, lacking intelligence and skill.
Views: 136
This Tuesday, August 20th, over 500 people gathered in Ciutadella to demand a different path for the island. Under the slogan “Menorca is not for sale,” the crowd assembled in the Cathedral Square to request a change of course, with tourism as an economic activity that respects both residents and natural resources.
Views: 48
Rowing at sea is the application of the lever principle to move a boat. It’s one of the oldest systems, practiced by peoples all over the world. Rowing was the motor of the past, especially when the wind was not blowing and the sails hung limp. Having strong arms on board was a guarantee of being able to overcome the uncertainties of the sea.
Views: 102
In a year of severe drought, large forage irrigations continue to be seen watering during peak sun hours. In Menorca, this practice is prohibited by law. The GOB (Balearic Group of Ornithology and Defense of Nature) has written to the Department of Water Resources to request that large farms engaging in these practices be warned.
Continue reading Large Irrigations in Full Sun and Against the Law
Views: 79
The issues of access to housing and the touristification of urban centers will be the focus of the next participatory action by the Via Menorca platform. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 20th, at 7 PM, in the Plaça de la Catedral of Ciutadella.
The activity will create a human embrace around much of the old town of Ciutadella as a call to halt the loss of rights and identity.
Continue reading August 20: Take part in the popular embrace of Ciutadella’s Old Town
