Was wondering what to write today as my mind in on other things, when these photographs of the Ria Formosa caught my eye. They immediately made me think of events planned this weekend on Ilha de Tavira to protest against the planned oil and gas exploration and production in the Algarve.
The Algarve mountains and coastline are stunning and whilst in much better condition than tourist areas in other parts of the world, they are not being looked after as well they could and should be. As frequently happens financial desires and corporate demands override environmental needs and local concerns. I know there are no easy or ready answers in our world of consumerism, but if we don’t find sustainable solutions soon it could be too late for us and the Algarve. This weekend there are fortunately people highlighting the issues and creating a movement for a more positive way forward. I cannot make the events this weekend as I am in England but am doing what I can by highlighting the events today. If though you are in the Algarve this weekend then please do visit Ilha de Tavira. Not only will you be helping to make a difference it looks like it will be great fun!
Industrial development isn’t the only risk to the beauty of Algarve’s coastline or the survival of its flora and fauna. There is everyday pollution and there is tourism! The former you can help make a difference today by disposing of your rubbish carefully, and spending 10minutes next time you are at the beach by picking up any rubbish you see. Tourism is a little bit more complicated. Tourists are essential to the Algarvian economy, but developments such as at Monte Gordo have a significant impact on the landscape. You may have already seen from Len Port’s article yesterday’s Algarvian Newswatch another part of the coastline is at risk from over development. Ecotourism, environmental responsibility and sustainable developments are some of the answers. These answers though need everyone – and by that I mean you, me, your friends, fellow tourists and neighbours, corporate companies and governments – to play a part. We all need to care about the future if the future is to be a better one than the one we are heading for.
