Thursday, September 19, 2024 The reduction of airline routes and a halt in hotel construction could play a significant role in curbing over-tourism in Tenerife , a Spanish island that remains immensely popular among British and U.S. tourists .
The recent decision by United Airlines to discontinue its direct Tenerife-New York route due to low demand marks a symbolic victory for those protesting the environmental strain caused by mass tourism. The move could reduce the influx of international tourists, particularly from the U.S.
, helping to ease some of the pressure on the island’s resources. Moreover, the call to stop further hotel construction is a critical step towards achieving sustainability. The current Plan Insular de Ordenación allows for the expansion of over 129,000 new tourist beds, effectively doubling the island’s capacity.
Opponents argue that this growth is environmentally unsustainable, given the limited natural resources and fragile ecosystems on the island. By limiting both airline traffic and new accommodations, Tenerife can focus on attracting a more conscious, eco-friendly type of tourist while reducing the impact of mass tourism. This approach could help the island protect its environment, maintain its cultural identity, and ensure the sustainability of its tourism industry for future generations.
In recent years, the Canary Islands—particularly the popular destinations of Tenerife and Lanzarote —have faced growing protests over mass tourism. Kno.