In the Canary Islands, tourism is the main economic driver but has also led to issues such as locals being priced out of the property market and environmental damage. The islands saw over 16 million tourists in 2023, spending over 20 billion euros. However, protesters took to the streets recently under the banner “The Canary Islands have a limit” to voice their concerns.
The protesters acknowledge the job opportunities provided by tourism but argue that most are low-skilled and poorly paid. With many properties owned by second home-owners, buying a home or finding affordable rent has become difficult. Tourism grew by five percent last year, leading to overcrowding, according to the protesters. They advocate for attracting fewer, wealthier tourists to alleviate the strain.
Ecologists in Action joined the protest, highlighting the impact of mass tourism on the islands’ biodiversity. The volcanic formation of the Canary Islands has unique ecosystems and endemic species that are at risk due to tourism.
Protesters have called for legislative changes, such as the introduction of a tourist tax similar to that in the Balearic Islands. However, they report that no substantial changes have been made, and there has been a lack of communication from authorities. Eugenio Reyes, a protester in Maspalomas, emphasized the need for officials to listen to citizens’ specific proposals and enact measures to address the negative effects of tourism on the islands.
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