Tag Archives: Politics

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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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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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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Menorcan challenges on World Tourism Day

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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.

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Cala en Porter: a protected beach, yet sacrificed

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The Balearic Government’s Department of Coastal Management and the Alaior City Council are carrying out material dumping and significant land movements on Cala en Porter beach. GOB has requested access to the favorable environmental reports, given that this is a highly protected area.

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Ràdio Far launches a podcast on environmental reflection

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Ràdio Far station has introduced a new podcast titled “Època de muda” (“Molting Season”), offering deep reflections on our relationship with the environment. The podcast features the evocative and committed texts by Miquel Camps, GOB’s Coordinator of Territorial Policy. This platform aims not just to share opinions on environmental issues, but also to challenge listeners’ consciences and spark debates on the significant challenges that our society is facing today.

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Over five hundred people gather to embrace the old town of Ciutadella against the impact of mass tourism on Menorca

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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.

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