Understanding Spain’s Economy and Environmental Impact
1. What is the economy?
The economy manages existing resources to satisfy the needs of individuals and human groups. The word derives from Greek: oikos (house) and nomos (administration) -> oikos-nomia (household management).
2. What is a Parcel?
A parcel is a basic unit of land. Parcels vary in size: small (-1 hectare), medium (between 1 and 10 hectares), and large (+10 hectares). Their shapes can be regular (defined geometric shapes) or irregular (undefined geometric shapes). Parcels can be divided into areas with boundaries like walls, trees, or stones (Bocage), or exist as open fields (Openfield).
3. Main difference between dryland and irrigated agriculture
Dryland agriculture relies solely on rainfall (e.g., grapes, almonds, olives – the “Mediterranean trilogy”). Irrigated agriculture uses large quantities of water distributed through artificial systems.
4. Transformations in rural areas
Rural areas face demographic changes (aging population, labor shortages, hiring of foreign workers), landscape transformations (concentration of plots, expansion of greenhouses, development of irrigation techniques), industrial development, growth of new sports and tourism activities (“rural tourism”), and construction changes (building of second floors and houses).
5. Types of industries
Heavy industry (metallurgical and chemical), and light industry producing goods for use and consumption (food, automotive, light chemicals, electronics, textiles).
6. Environmental consequences of industry
Industries modify the environment. Industrial waste causes water pollution, acid rain, increased greenhouse effect, ozone layer reduction, noise pollution, and depletion of natural resources.
Corrective measures: sustainable development, environmental policies, reduced consumption, recycling, and environmental protection movements.
7. Types of tourism
In Spain, tourism includes beach tourism (coastal areas with sandy beaches and mild climate), sports tourism (water sports like windsurfing and nature sports like hiking), nature tourism (ecotourism), artistic and cultural tourism, spa tourism, and conference tourism.
8. Impact of the tertiary sector
Transportation: Creates new activities.
Tourism: Generates revenue, stimulates other activities, modifies host population activities, and leads to changes in their lives.
Media: Transforms personal and professional life through the internet, providing more information, education, leisure, and changing the workplace.
9. Goods transported by rail
Rail transport is widely used for large volumes of goods and passengers over short and medium distances.
10. Spanish agricultural landscapes
Oceanic landscape, Mediterranean Coast, Mediterranean interior, and the Canary Islands.
11. Origin of oil consumed in Spain
Spain imports oil from Russia, Mexico, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, Iran, and Iraq. Major refineries are located in Tarragona, Algeciras, Huelva, and Puertollano.
12. Tourism in Spain
Tourism boomed in 1960 due to:
- Location
- Increased domestic tourism
- Improved transport infrastructure
- Diverse physical environment and climate
- Cultural richness
- Quality accommodations and tourist facilities
- Skilled human resources
- Affordable prices
- Support from government entities
13. Overview of Valencian agriculture
Valencian agriculture is characterized by:
- Predominance of tree crops
- Focus on exports
Dryland crops:
- Almond
- Olive
- Carob
- Cereals
Irrigated crops:
- Citrus
- Vegetables
- Rice
Problems:
- Small farm size
- Adverse weather (cold drops, hail, drought)
- Crop diseases (tristeza virus)
- Water scarcity
- International competition
14. Types of tourism in the Valencian Community
Nature tourism, sports tourism, artistic and cultural tourism, spa tourism, and conference tourism.
15. Environmental consequences of economic activities in Spain and Valencia
- Excessive water consumption and overexploitation of aquifers
- Deforestation and desertification
- Air, water, and soil pollution
- Noise and visual pollution
- Waste disposal
- Depletion of natural resources
16. Corrective actions for environmental problems
- Water saving: New irrigation systems and wastewater reuse
- Reforestation: Preventing and combating forest fires
- Reducing emissions: Promoting renewable energy sources
- Installing noise barriers
- Recycling waste
- Awareness campaigns for water and energy conservation and recycling
17. Definition of economic sectors
Primary sector: Activities that obtain resources from nature (agriculture, livestock, forestry, fishing, mining).
Secondary sector: Construction and industry.
Tertiary sector: Provides services (transport, health, education, etc.).