Mass Protests Erupt in Canary Islands Against Over-Tourism
Residents demand changes to tourism policies, citing environmental damage and housing issues.
- Thousands of locals protested across the Canary Islands, including Tenerife and Gran Canaria, against the impact of mass tourism.
- Demonstrators argue that the influx of tourists depletes natural resources and drives up housing costs, making it unaffordable for residents.
- Protesters carried signs with slogans like 'The Canary Islands have a limit' and 'This beach is ours,' highlighting their frustration with tourism's impact.
- The regional government is considering new laws to restrict short-term rentals and limit the construction of new tourist accommodations.
- The Canary Islands saw a record 16.2 million visitors last year, with numbers expected to rise, intensifying calls for sustainable tourism practices.