Mallorca faces tension between tourism promotion and environmental protests

The Balearic Islands are experiencing contrasting developments regarding tourism and environmental management. In Palma, the city council is actively seeking to attract more high-value North American tourists. The Fundació Turisme Palma 365 has awarded a contract to promote the destination through a roadshow on the US East Coast and a B2B event in New York in 2027, following increased direct flight connectivity.

Conversely, significant local protests are occurring against the effects of mass tourism and environmental degradation. In Port de Pollença, the conservation group Arrels Marines organized a demonstration involving over 300 people. Participants formed a human chain to demand the restoration of water quality, citing issues with sewage discharge, illegal boat anchoring, and excessive sedimentation. They are calling for a sewage master plan and better regulation of maritime traffic.

In Palma, the activist Madò Farta has called for a symbolic human chain to protest overtourism and defend the rights of residents to public spaces. Additionally, in Palamós, swimmers and local clubs are demanding increased safety regulations and clearer maritime rules to protect people in the water from the rising number of recreational vessels on the Costa Brava.