Particle.news

Download on the App Store

130,000 Protesters Demand Tourism Limits in Canary Islands

Mass demonstrations across the islands highlight overtourism's strain on housing, resources, and infrastructure as officials pledge dialogue.

Image
Image

Overview

  • Protests under the banner 'Canarias tiene un límite' saw over 130,000 people demand caps on tourist numbers, stricter rental controls, and a ban on new hotel projects.
  • Residents cite overtourism as a driver of rising housing costs, environmental degradation, and overburdened public services across the archipelago.
  • Tourism accounts for 35% of the Canary Islands' GDP and 40% of employment, creating tension between economic reliance and sustainability concerns.
  • Tenerife's tourism minister, Lope Alfonso, announced plans to engage with activists to address their concerns and explore sustainable tourism models.
  • British tourist bookings have reportedly declined, with some holidaymakers expressing fears of disruption due to the growing anti-tourism sentiment.