We reach the present and, surprise, the environment is a serious subject. At least in theory! Spain, being a good European country, has signed every possible treaty to protect nature, combat climate change, and reduce CO2 emissions. Listening to official speeches, you might think we live in the Mediterranean’s ecological paradise. But once again, reality bears little resemblance to the words.
Today, our love of asphalt remains unshakable. It is true that we have created national parks and protected areas, but that does not mean we have set aside our need to build and consume land. In fact, one of the great national pastimes is watching bricks continue to occupy space at dizzying speed, while reports on desertification and biodiversity loss pile up in some forgotten drawer.
The same goes for forest fires. Every summer, Spain’s forests burn, and although there are many causes, we cannot deny that neglect and poor forestry practices play an important role. And what do we do after every major fire? Replant, of course, but with little planning. Besides, if we happen to find a nice plot for a new housing development along the way, who could say no?
But it is not all negative. At least we have become experts at recycling excuses. When someone criticizes us for building too close to the coast, drying up rivers, or filling our cities with cars, we always have an answer ready: ‘We’re working on it.’ And so, year after year, we keep working on sustainability, while our cities keep expanding and our green spaces become mere memories.