The regional government of the Balearic Islands, known as the Consell de Govern, in November approved a declaration of climate emergency and pledged to prioritize the fight against global warming with a clear and cross-cutting approach through action in 19 separate areas.
“The Declaration of climate emergency arises from the need to establish real and effective policies capable of minimizing climate change based on the Paris Agreement of the United Nations Convention,” stated the regional government. “It must be borne in mind that the Balearic Islands, as an island territory, are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change, such as an increase in average temperature, a decrease in precipitation or an increase in extreme events, such as heat waves or intense rains. These factors pose a risk to the water, land, tourism and health sectors, as well as to the natural environment, energy and the primary sector.”
The Spanish region concluded that “rapid and significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions must be achieved.”
To achieve this, effective coordination is needed between all administrations, as well as the involvement of citizens and business. According to the government, more than 80% of greenhouse gas emissions in the Balearic Islands are concentrated in two major sectors: mobility and electricity production. For this reason, the Government announced “an agenda of regulatory changes and public policies that allow progress towards a real and just energy transition.”
The regional government committed to action plans in 19 sectors, from climate change to energy, waste, mobility, shipping and tourism and industry. For example:
- In energy, it wants to quickly develop Law 10/2019 of 22 February on climate change and energy transition, and approve an Energy Transition Plan, which has to establish a timetable for penetration of renewable energy, energy savings and closure of thermal power plants
- In maritime and air transport, it will promote the use of less polluting vessels, rationalise frequencies, provide infrastructure and alternative fuels, and ensure sustainable port management
- In Tourism, the government wants to develop a sustainable tourism strategy and adapt tourism infrastructure to climate change.
