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Video Synopsis:
The Impact of Tourism III: Majorca
Majorca was once a quiet green island. Nothing much happened here except farming. It was one of the poorest parts of Europe. Then about forty years ago it became a centre for tourism. This video shows the effects of tourism on the Spanish island of Majorca — its environment, economy and culture. In the 1960s miles of Majorcan coastline were concreted over, as the authorities on the island sought to profit from the rapidly growing package holiday market. Now the builders have moved inland, building second homes. Property prices have increased by up to 30% — bad news for the young locals who can't afford to marry and set up home.
Environmental Impact
The visitors are taking their toll on Majorca's environment. Beaches are
being damaged as every day huge quantities of sand are accidentally taken
back to hotels on people's feet. The boom has brought traffic jams and pollution,
too. Too many holiday-makers means too much rubbish and a critical lack of
water.
Effect on Traditional Economy
Tourism now accounts for 85% of the island's income. From being one of the
poorest areas in Spain, now it's among the most affluent. But tourism has
all but destroyed farming, once the island's main source of income. People
have abandoned the land and turned to tourism, where jobs are easier and more
plentiful.
The Local Inhabitants
The decline in agriculture is causing a decline in the traditional Majorcan
culture it supported, too. By long tradition Majorcans have been friendly
to foreigners — but recently there's been a change of mood. In particular,
there's a growing hostility against foreigners buying second homes.
"Sustainable Tourism"?
The island authorities are acting to control mass tourism. They've demolished
old hotels. They're considering an "eco-tax" on tourism and they're promoting
off-peak holidays to take the pressure off the busy summer months. Much hope
is put on alternative forms of tourism, less damaging to the environment -
"sustainable tourism". An example of this is "agrotourism"- farms where people
get their income from farming and from putting up tourists. But many on the
island disagree with the authorities' approach. Only time will tell if "sustainable
tourism" will be achieved.
PRICE: see How to Order
Running time: 30 mins (Produced in 2000)
"It's very good. It covers the right issues at the right level." Mr E J Hyde, Linton Village College School, Cambridgeshire
"Excellent, particularly well done. It hits exactly the right level for 14 to 16 year olds." Scott Cuthill, Montrose Academy, Angus
"An excellent video which was up-to-date and dealt very effectively with the issue of sustainability. The pupils found it very appealing as the issues were put across in a pupil friendly way."Sally Williams, Head of Geography, Bryn Offa School, Wrexham
"Thought-provoking, stimulating, relevant and socially very applicable for teenagers today." Jane Gilbertson, St Joseph's High School, Bolton, Lancashire
"An excellent case study which is nicely packaged into sections relating to each of the main factors studied at GCSE and A-Level. Particularly impressive on the specific example of agro-tourism (sustainable). Keeps students' interest and uses lively footage and music to generate interest. Especially recommended for 6th formers. Thank you! More like this please!" Mr J Dunn, Geography, Gordon's School, Berkshire
"Excellent video which shows the problems of mass tourism and goes on to deal with alternative and more 'sustainable' options." Lynton Bussell, Teesside Business School, University of Teesside, Middlesbrough
Video Summary: Explores the effects of tourism on Majorca.