MITECO allocates 40 million euros to 189 projects fighting depopulation in Spain

Spain's Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) has finalized the selection of 189 innovative projects aimed at territorial transformation and combating depopulation. A total of 40 million euros will be distributed among local entities, including provincial councils, municipalities, and regional associations. The funding targets sectors such as housing, bioeconomy, climate resilience, transport, and culture to foster economic activity in shrinking rural areas.

Geographically, Andalusia leads with 41 projects, followed by Castilla y León with 37, Aragón with 21, Catalonia with 16, Extremadura with 15, and Valencia with 14. Specific regional initiatives include projects in El Bierzo, Bajo Aragón, and Castelló, focusing on everything from waste management and digital platforms to rural housing networks and forest fire prevention.

In addition to depopulation efforts, other environmental and energy initiatives are underway. This includes a training program for the Coal Tourism Experience Network in mining regions like León and Teruel, and a public tender for 600 MW of renewable energy capacity in the As Pontes area to replace decommissioned coal power. Meanwhile, environmental organizations are calling for urgent safety regulations for irrigation ponds following the deaths of Iberian lynxes in Hellín.