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The green agenda Protection of the territory’s native marine life has been a priority for this environmentally conscious government gibraltar hit the headlines during July, when its decision to sink 70 concrete blocks just off its coast resulted in widespread protests by Spanish fishermen and uproar in Madrid. A great furore followed, but at its heart was just one government’s avowed dedication to protecting its marine environment and promoting the regeneration of local fishery stocks that had been depleted by trawling, primarily by Spanish ships. Artificial reefs are not even uncommon in this area of the Mediterranean, with Spain placing 130 of its own since the 1980s. In 1991, Gibraltar signed its Nature Protection Act, with the conservation of the bay’s unique ecosystem high on its priorities. And with nearly 1,500 species of fauna and flora found within its first 30m of depth, according to a 2006 Spanish study – as well as the Rock’s significance as a breeding area for numerous dolphin species – it’s little wonder that both the Gibraltarian and Spanish governments continue to take steps to preserve it. The Southern Waters of Gibraltar was established as the area’s first Site of Community Importance in 2006, with subsequent legislation granting it Special Area of Conservation and Special Protected Area status. This recognition of the fragile environment beneath the waves is symbolic of the government’s pledge to put the environment at the centre of everything it does. One of its key promises during the election campaign was that every minister would be a minister for the environment, and, so far, it’s stuck to its word, prioritising green issues in public spending and encouraging
investment in green technology by slashing import duties on low-energy lighting and hybrid vehicles. The plans do not stop there, with the introduction of pilot schemes for
“It touches my heart when young dynamic governments give the environment priority” Al Gore
renewable technologies and an eco-park to assist with waste disposal expected soon. The government also hopes to reduce polluting power generation from its three diesel plants, and has recently awarded a £4 million contract for a temporary power station to ease existing capacity. The government lists the creation of a sustainable environmental management strategy and increasing public awareness of green issues among its key objectives. In October 2012 it hosted an international climate conference, Thinking Green, which attracted such prestigious speakers as former US vice-president Al Gore. “How impressed I am with what Mr Picardo and his government are doing for the environment,” said Gore. “It touches my heart when young dynamic governments give the environment priority. Gibraltar is an example for the rest of the world.”