Spain’s Environmental Challenges and Primary Sector
Environmental Issues
Problems and Policies
Negative human actions include over-exploitation, pollution, and destruction of environmental elements.
Spain’s environmental concern began in the late 1960s, leading to the creation of ICONA in 1971. The 1978 Constitution enshrined the right to enjoy the environment. Current policy aligns with international agreements on climate change, pollution, and desertification.
EU policy promotes sustainable development, addresses degradation, and conserves natural areas (Natura 2000).
The Ministry of Environment aims for sustainable development and improved environmental quality.
Major Environmental Problems
Alteration of Relief
Mining and construction alter continental relief, creating artificial landscapes. Solutions focus on restoring affected areas.
Coastal erosion leads to beach loss. Policies aim to recover natural coastlines.
Air Pollution
Caused by emissions from power plants and industries.
Acid rain results from sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Spain adheres to the Geneva Convention to reduce emissions.
Ozone layer depletion is due to chlorofluorocarbons. The Montreal Protocol banned CFCs. Tropospheric ozone causes respiratory issues.
Urban pollution forms smog. Public transport and energy savings are promoted.
Greenhouse effect leads to climate change. Spain complies with the Kyoto Protocol.
Noise Pollution
Caused by traffic and industrial activities. Noise laws regulate maximum levels.
Overexploitation and Pollution of Water
Increased consumption causes water overexploitation. Water-saving programs and conservation plans are implemented.
Water pollution comes from waste disposal and agricultural runoff. Water treatment plants are being built.
Damage to Vegetation
Natural causes and deforestation affect vegetation. The Spanish Forestry Plan promotes sustainable management.
Soil Pollution and Erosion
Industrial discharges and fertilizers cause soil pollution. The National Recovery Plan addresses decontamination.
Erosion is intensified by human activities. Reforestation and sustainable agriculture are promoted.
Solid Waste
The National Urban Waste Plan promotes reducing, reusing, and recycling waste.
Biodiversity Reduction
A National Catalogue of Endangered Species protects threatened species.
Protection of Natural Areas
Protected Areas
National Parks and Nature Reserves conserve natural areas.
Other Measures
Environmental protection is integrated into sectoral policies.
Natural Landscapes
Oceanic Landscape
- Location: North Spain
- Terrain: Rugged
- Climate: Oceanic
- Waters: Short rivers
- Vegetation: Deciduous forest
- Soils: Brown earth, ranker
Mediterranean Landscape
- Area: South Spain, Balearic Islands
- Terrain: Plateaus, mountains
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Waters: Irregular rivers
- Vegetation: Evergreen forest
- Soil: Varied types
Primary Sector
Stages
In the mid-19th century, Spain was primarily agricultural. The 20th century saw a shift towards industry and services.
Agriculture
Terms
Rainfall deficit, temperature contrasts, hilly relief, and scarce clay soils affect agriculture.
Features
Specialization, modern techniques, intensive farming, and irrigation are key features.
Livestock
Livestock production focuses on meat and dairy, with intensive and extensive farming practices.