Spanish coastlines eroding: Climate change accelerates beach loss

Rapid climate changes have many negative effects, including those visible on the Spanish coast. The Ministry for the Ecological Transition has conveyed troubling news.

According to estimates by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, cited on Thursday, June 6, by local media, since 2016, the sea has encroached 45 meters inland on the Costa del Sol.

According to government experts, the Mediterranean Sea's waters encroaching inland on the southern coast of Spain is intensifying. Experts have noted that from January to May 2024 alone, four strong storms passed through the Costa del Sol, contributing to the sea taking over areas that were formerly beaches.

The Spanish ministry estimates that the municipality of Málaga has been covered by the sea in the largest amount.

According to Rafael Yus from "Ecologists in Action," due to the rapidly intensifying phenomenon of water encroachment, coastal municipalities on the Spanish coast should limit the issuing of permits for building new properties close to beaches. Yus concluded that as the phenomenon intensifies, many inhabited areas may soon become islands.

Costa del Sol is undoubtedly one of the more popular parts of the Spanish coast among tourists. Yearly, crowds of tourists from various parts of the world flood it, making it no wonder it is the perfect place for a vacation. 300 kilometres of beaches, excellent hotels, and campgrounds with great infrastructure—that's all the Spanish resort has to offer.

One of the most luxurious cities in this region is Marbella. The area has excellent conditions for beachgoing and water sports. In recent years, more and more affluent Poles have decided to buy properties in this part of the world.