Greenpeace Highlights Growing Concerns Over the Canary Islands’ Coastline
The stunning coastline is one of the biggest reasons millions of people visit Lanzarote and the Canary Islands every year. From dramatic volcanic cliffs to golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, the islands’ natural beauty is central to both tourism and local life.
Now, environmental organisation Greenpeace is urging governments to do more to protect these coastlines, warning that climate change, coastal development and increasingly severe storms are putting many areas at greater risk.
Why Is Greenpeace Concerned?
In its latest report on Spain’s coastline, Greenpeace says around 150 kilometres of the Canary Islands’ coastline are considered vulnerable to the combined effects ofrising sea levels, coastal erosion, urban development, and stronger storms. The organisation estimates that approximately four kilometres of natural coastline are being lost each year across the archipelago due to human pressure and climate-related impacts.
Rather than relying solely on repairing damaged promenades or replacing sand after storms, Greenpeace believes authorities should invest more in nature-based solutions, such as restoring dunes, wetlands and natural coastal ecosystems that can better absorb wave energy and reduce erosion.
Lanzarote Included in the Report
Although many examples highlighted are from across the Canary Islands,Lanzarote is also mentioned.
Greenpeace points to changing sea temperatures and ocean currents affecting marine ecosystems around the Marine Reserve of La Graciosa and northern Lanzarote. According to the report, these environmental changes are influencing fish populations and marine biodiversity, while research from the University of La Laguna suggests warmer waters are affecting important species of marine algae.
The organisation has also previously highlighted the impact that repeated storm damage has had on parts of Arrecife’s seafront, saying expensive repairs following rough seas demonstrate how exposed some developed coastal areas have become.
What Does This Mean for Tourists?
For anyone planning a holiday in Lanzarote, there is no reason to cancel or change travel plans.
The island remains one of Europe’s safest and most beautiful destinations, with its beaches, coastal walks and seaside resorts continuing to welcome visitors throughout the year.
Instead, Greenpeace’s report is looking at the long-term management of the coastline rather than suggesting any immediate danger to tourists.
For visitors, it’s simply another reminder to:
- Respect protected coastal areas and dunes.
- Stay away from cliffs during rough sea conditions.
- Follow local safety advice after storms.
- Support sustainable tourism where possible.
Protecting Lanzarote’s Natural Beauty
One of Lanzarote’s greatest strengths has always been its commitment to balancing tourism with environmental protection, influenced by the legacy of César Manrique and strict planning rules that have helped preserve much of the island’s unique landscape.
Environmental groups argue that continuing this approach will become even more important as climate change brings rising sea levels, warmer oceans and more frequent extreme weather events over the coming decades.
A Debate That Will Continue
Not everyone agrees on the best way forward. While Greenpeace is calling for more restoration of natural coastlines and fewer hard engineering projects, public authorities must also consider protecting homes, businesses, roads and tourism infrastructure that are vital to island communities.
Finding the right balance between protecting people, supporting the tourism economy and preserving the natural environment is likely to remain an important issue across the Canary Islands for many years.
For residents and visitors alike, one thing is certain: Lanzarote’s spectacular coastline remains one of its greatest treasures, and ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations will continue to be a priority.
