Country fines Tourists ₹2 lakh for beach rock picking.

 image: Pexels

Authorities in the Canary Islands are taking a firm stance against tourists collecting sand, stones, and rocks from beaches, particularly in popular destinations like Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The seemingly innocuous act of taking souvenirs has significant consequences for the fragile ecosystems of these islands. Reports indicate that Lanzarote alone loses approximately one ton of volcanic material annually from its beaches, while Fuerteventura's renowned "Popcorn Beach" sees a staggering loss of sand every month.

To combat this issue, authorities have implemented strict fines ranging from £128 (Rs 13,478) to £2,563 (Rs 2,69,879). Tourists caught taking the distinctive popcorn-shaped pebbles from Fuerteventura's beaches face fines between £128 and £512, with larger amounts potentially resulting in the maximum penalty.

This crackdown reflects broader concerns about the Canary Islands' sustainability in the face of mass tourism. Tenerife, for instance, has declared a water emergency due to severe drought conditions, exacerbated by high tourist consumption. Some officials attribute the strain on resources to excessive water use by tourists, with one hotel found to be consuming four times more water per guest than a local resident.

With a resident population of under a million compared to over 5 million tourists annually, experts warn of a potential "systemic collapse" if resource pressures persist. Tenerife has already implemented measures such as banning the use of drinking water for gardens and pools in response to the drought.

However, enforcing fines poses a challenge for authorities, particularly regarding seized materials at Lanzarote and Fuerteventura Airports. Proving whether rocks, stones, or sand were removed from protected areas presents difficulties in enforcement.

The Canary Islands comprise seven main islands, each offering unique attractions. Tenerife, the largest island, boasts Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, while other islands like Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura showcase diverse landscapes and cultural experiences. Preserving these natural wonders is paramount to the islands' long-term sustainability amid growing tourist numbers.