Tag Archives: Preservation

Wednesday, November 13, book presentation: Portfolio 1 – Photographs and Stories of Extraordinary Birds

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This coming Wednesday at 7:30 PM, the GOB’s Maó office will host the presentation of Portfolio 1 – Fotografías e historias de aves extraordinarias [Photographs and Stories of Extraordinary Birds], published by Lynx Nature Books. A work by ornithologist and photographer Rafael Armada, who has published in numerous specialized ornithology magazines. His work has illustrated many publications and has earned him multiple awards and recognitions. Also joining the event will be Alejandra Rendón, author of the texts accompanying the images.

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Rewarding Illegal Pools?

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The Alaior Town Council has granted a license to legalize the pools at the Torre Vella agrotourism site, ignoring the warning from the former Environmental Commission, which argued that environmental violations cannot be retroactively legalized.

Decree Law 3/2024, introduced by the Council last May under the guise of “administrative simplification,” actually modifies over 50 regulations. Among the most controversial changes are the lifting of bans on construction in flood-prone areas and the dissolution of the Environmental Commission. We are now starting to see the results of these changes.

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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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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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