Lorraine Williamson
Thousands of residents across the Canary Islands and mainland Spain took to the streets today to protest against the current mass tourism model. Demonstrations also took place in European cities, including Berlin and London, underlining growing international concern.
The coordinated protests were organised by Canarias tiene un límite (“The Canary Islands have a limit”), a movement that has been steadily gaining traction. Demonstrators demanded action on housing, the environment, and labour conditions within the tourism sector.
Demonstrations across Spain and Europe
Protests began at 11.00 am on each of the Canary Islands, with Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s march starting in Plaza Weyler. Slogans included “No more dumping in the sea” and “Introduce an ecotax.” Many carried images of César Manrique, the late artist and environmentalist whose legacy still resonates on the islands.
Demonstrators used drums and traditional Canarian instruments to amplify their chants. Messages directed at regional president Fernando Clavijo included, “Clavijo, listen, the people are rising” and “Where is the tourism money?”
Solidarity marches also occurred in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and cities abroad, where protesters highlighted similar issues like housing shortages and low wages linked to tourism dependence.
Housing and environmental concerns at the forefront
In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, housing access was the central issue. Locals say the surge in holiday rentals is pricing them out, particularly affecting young people and low-income residents.
In Fuerteventura, campaigners focused on environmental degradation and loss of cultural identity. In La Oliva, over 40% of homes are now holiday rentals. Many local families are forced to live in vehicles or temporary shelters.
Water shortages also featured prominently. Activists are pushing for a renewable-powered public water consortium and improved wastewater treatment. “If there’s enough water for golf courses, there should be enough for residents,” said activist Adelina Padrón.
Protesters call for fairer, greener tourism
Organisers clarified they are not against tourism itself but oppose its current scale and impact. They advocate for a new model—one that balances economic benefits with social and environmental sustainability.
This is not the first time islanders have taken to the streets. Similar protests in April 2024 drew tens of thousands.
Other regions also feeling the strain
The Canary Islands are not alone. In Barcelona, authorities plan to phase out all short-term rental licenses by 2028 to ease housing pressure. The city has also increased tourist taxes, especially for short-stay cruise visitors.
The Balearic Islands introduced an ecotax in 2016, which funds conservation and heritage projects. Meanwhile, Málaga is clamping down on holiday rentals and has launched a campaign encouraging respectful tourist behaviour.
With mass tourism placing increasing strain on infrastructure, housing, and natural resources, more Spanish regions are reassessing how tourism is managed. The growing number of protests suggests many believe change is overdue.