Climate emergency poses a significant risk to Spain’s mass tourism model, especially in popular coastal destinations, according to Héctor Tejero, head of health and climate change at Spain’s health ministry. Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are impacting the Mediterranean coast and other tourist-heavy regions, potentially making them less habitable and less attractive to visitors.
Government Actions and Tourist Safety
Tejero revealed that the Spanish health ministry is collaborating with the British embassy to educate tourists on how to cope with extreme heat. The initiative aims to enhance awareness among visitors, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related health issues. Tejero highlighted that tourists, unfamiliar with local temperatures, are at greater risk and need to follow safety recommendations diligently.
Concerns Over Tourism Sustainability
The warning comes amidst growing concerns over over-tourism in Spain, which saw a record 85.1 million international visitors last year. The influx of tourists has exacerbated issues such as water shortages and transportation congestion. A government report from eight years ago projected that climate change could severely impact Spain’s tourism industry, with potential declines in visitor numbers and the closure of ski resorts by 2080.
Health Risks and Epidemic Concerns
Tejero pointed out that heatwaves in Spain result in approximately 3,000 deaths annually and a 10% increase in urgent hospital admissions. He also noted that higher temperatures are likely to increase the spread of vector-borne diseases. Recent cases, such as Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, underline the broader health implications of the climate crisis.
