Tourism represents nearly 12 pc of Spain’s economy
The government of Catalunya in Spain is said to be implementing a system to measure water usage at tourist establishments following a declaration of a drought emergency in February.
Catalunya, in northeastern Spain, with Barcelona as its capital, is known for the lively beach resorts of Costa Brava as well as the Pyrenees Mountains. Despite, the region is faced with a critical water situation as Barcelona exits its almost four-year-long drought.
According to press reports, a restriction of 100 litres per tourist per day for hotels would go into effect if a municipality fails to keep domestic water use by residents below established limits for three consecutive months under the current “drought emergency” for Catalonia.
According to press reports, the aftermath has left many tough questions about the realities of water management and mass tourism. Although the city received its first consistent spring rains in four years this year, many residents and officials are concerned about the sustainability of Barcelona’s dependent relationship on tourism, the reports say.
As a result, measures will be taken to prepare for drought, the statement adds. It says that as per Barcelona’s hotel guild, the average tourist to Barcelona in 2022 used some 163 litres per day, while the figure rose to over 240 litres for luxury hotels.
Rain is falling consistently in Barcelona for the first time in almost four years. Catalonia’s longest drought since records began is coming to an end, bringing the first ‘normal’ spring and much-needed respite as the tourist season begins.
The statement adds that as the reservoirs fill past their previously critically low condition, the tourist rush will increase as summer vacations approach.
Tourism represents nearly 12 pc of Spain’s economy but there has been growing pressure by water conservationist groups to limit the use of water by tourists during the drought.
