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Date Published: 16/06/2024
10 polluted Andalucia beaches damned with Black Flags
Throughout Spain, 48 beaches, rivers and coastal areas have been condemned by ecologists
As the summer sun shines over Spain, environmentalists have raised a red flag – or rather, a black one – over 48 beaches, rivers and coastal areas across the country, including 10 in the popular community of Andalucia.
Each year, beachgoers flock to the shores of Andalucia, drawn by its pristine sandy stretches and sparkling waters. However, amidst the allure of sun and sea, a recent report by Ecologistas en Acción sheds light on a darker side of these coastal paradises.
In their annual assessment, ecologists have identified 10 locations in Andalucia that warrant the infamous "Black Flag" distinction, signalling poor management and environmental concerns. From construction blunders to water pollution and noise nuisances, these beaches tell a sorry tale of human impact on nature.
Huelva: El Portil
In Huelva, El Portil beach finds itself in the crosshairs due to poor environmental management. The construction of stone walls to protect urbanisations and breakwaters to tame the tides has disrupted the natural harmony of this once-pristine coastline.
Adding to its woes, the province's estuary faces pollution from fuel production projects and the controversial use of plastic waste under the guise of a “circular economy”, according to the report.
Cádiz: Tarifa
Travel east to the shores of Cádiz, where Tarifa's sandy expanse earns a Black Flag for excessive urban sprawl. Nearly 3,000 metres of beach have been encroached upon by illegal buildings, casting a shadow over this coastal haven.
Nearby, the Trafalgar Coast faces similar woes, threatened by hotel privatisation, uncontrolled development and illegal water extraction.
Malaga's coast
Along the vibrant coast of Malaga, it's the beach bars themselves that have fallen under scrutiny. Ecologists point to the negligence of the General Directorate of Coasts in granting permits for these establishments, disregarding mandatory reports from the Andalucian Coastal Demarcation.
Granada: Castell de Ferro, Poniente and Granada
Granada's coastline reveals a dual dilemma. Beaches in the municipality of Motril, including Poniente and Granada, suffer from frequent discharges of wastewater from the Alborán industrial estate and the Playa Granada developments.
Meanwhile, Castell de Ferro beach bears the scars of a 300-square-metre beach bar and unauthorised excavations.
Almería: Carboneras and Quitapellejos-Palomares
In Almería, two beaches find themselves in contrasting predicaments. El Lancón, in Carboneras, faces noise pollution from a poorly evaluated beach bar. In a more chilling scenario, Quitapellejos-Palomares beach bears the burden of a historical nuclear incident, with large quantities of radioactive particles of plutonium and americium buried in the sand from four nuclear bombs that fell in 1966.
As holidamakers plan their escapes to the coast, these Black Flags serve as a sobering reminder of the environmental challenges facing Andalucia's beloved beaches. As a result, Ecologistas en Acción have issued an urgent call to action for sustainable practices and responsible tourism, ensuring that these destinations remain vibrant and healthy for generations to come.
Also of interest: Andalusia ranks second highest in Spain for Blue Flag beach awards
Image: Ecologistas en Acción
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