Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
have white or pale-green leaves and an extensive root system that helps keep them
anchored in the shifting sands.
Poseidon's Grass
Beach lovers in northern Mallorca are occasionally put off by beaches with great rafts of
what many mistake for algae. This is sea grass (poseidon grass or
poseidonia
), vital for
the hindering of erosion on the seabed. The oxygen it gives off helps clean the water, at-
tracts abundant sealife and slows global warming by absorbing carbon dioxide. Thick
layers on some beaches actually help keep them intact. It can give off an unpleasant
odour, but its presence is nonetheless good for the maritime environment.
THE FUTURE IS GREEN
You need only take one look at Mallorca to see the island's potential for producing
renewable energy. The island has an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, and
steady winds prevail on the coast. Yet until fairly recently the island was dragging
its heels when it came to clean energy, despite its natural resources.
Things are slowly changing, as in 2011 Siemens set a precedent by introducing a
high-voltage direct current (HVDC) in the form of a 244km submarine cable
between Palma and Valencia. The HVDC provides renewable energy from the
Spanish mainland. Thought it is early days yet, it is hoped that in the near future
the island will derive the vast majority of its power from renewable sources, includ-
ing wind, solar and hydroelectric power.
Environmental Threats
The uninhibited construction that began in the 1960s and 1970s has influenced
everything from birds' nesting habits to plant habitats, rainwater runoff and water short-
ages. Although the government is more environmentally aware than in decades past, the
relationship between development and environmental protection remains uneasy.
One of the most pressing concerns for environmentalists is the prevalence of invasive
plant species. Many destructive species were first introduced in local gardens but have
found such a good home in Mallorca that they're crowding out endemic species. A good
example is
Carpobrotus edulis,
called 'sour fig' in England and locally dubbed
patata
frita
(french fry) or
dent de león
(lion's tooth) because of its long, slender leaves. A ro-
bust low-lying plant, it chokes native species wherever it goes.
