Spain's Regional Biogas Plant Controversies Prompt Moratorium Calls

In the Navarre region, citizen platforms and NGOs have urged a two‑year moratorium on the approval of new macro‑biogas plants. They argue that the facilities could worsen groundwater nitrate contamination, threaten 12 nitrate‑vulnerable zones covering about 248,000 hectares, and disrupt the rural environment. The groups have recorded thousands of objections and seek a slower, more participatory planning process.

In Baena, Córdoba, the environmental group Ecologistas en Acción has asked the town council to hold a popular consultation on authorising a large biogas plant. The proposal, backed by Greenar, Oleícola El Tejar and German firm MVV Bioenergy, aims to process olive‑oil waste (alperujo) and cut emissions. Opponents warn of increased heavy‑truck traffic, odour, possible leaks, and impacts on aquifers and the local olive‑growing landscape, calling for a transparent public vote before any decision is taken.