Devendra Kumar
Thousands of people gathered in Tenerife, the Spanish island, on Saturday to protest against the devastating consequences of over-tourism, which has led to a boom in short-term holiday rentals and hotel construction, driving up housing costs for locals. The protesters, who represent over two dozen environmental organizations, held placards that read “People live here” and “We don’t want to see our island die” to emphasize the urgent need for a change in the tourism model that accounts for 35% of the Canary Islands’ gross domestic product.
The protesters are demanding local authorities to temporarily limit the number of tourists and curb property purchases by foreigners to alleviate pressure on the islands’ environment, infrastructure, and housing stock. They argue that the current model is depleting the region’s resources and making the economy more precarious. Officials are concerned about the impact on locals, who are being priced out of the housing market by the influx of tourists.
In 2023, nearly 14 million foreign tourists visited the Canary Islands, a 13% increase from the previous year, according to official data. The rapid construction of hotels and short-term holiday rentals has led to a surge in housing prices, making it difficult for locals to find affordable housing. The influx of tourists has also put a strain on the island’s infrastructure, including its roads, public transportation, and healthcare system.
The protesters’ demands are supported by a draft law that is expected to pass this year, which aims to toughen the rules on short lets and address the concerns of residents. However, many argue that even this law is too little, too late. As the island’s residents continue to suffer the consequences of rapid tourism growth, they are left wondering if their way of life will soon be lost forever.
The protesters are calling for a change in the way the island is managed, arguing that the current model is unsustainable and benefits only a select few. They are demanding a more inclusive and sustainable approach to tourism, one that takes into account the needs and concerns of local residents. As the peak summer holiday season approaches, the protesters’ message is clear: the island’s resources and way of life are being sacrificed for the sake of tourism, and it’s time for a change.