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Illegal Fruit Farming Threatens Doñana
WWF estimates 30,000 tons of illegally grown red fruits from Huelva will reach European markets, highlighting the environmental damage and economic unfairness. Authorities are urged to take stronger action.
Spanish
Spain
Climate ChangeEuropean UnionInternational TradeEnvironmental ProtectionWater ResourcesSustainable FarmingIllegal AgricultureAgricultural Regulations
WwfFreshuelvaConfederación Hidrográfica Del GuadalquivirJunta De AndalucíaMinisterio De Transición Ecológica
Juan Manuel Moreno
- What is the environmental impact of these illegal farms?
- The illegal farms occupy 1,180 hectares and use 6 million cubic meters of water, which harms the Doñana National Park by depleting the aquifer.
- What actions are ecologists demanding to address this issue?
- Ecologists urge strong action from the regional and national authorities to shut down illegal wells and hectares, as previous measures have proven ineffective. Preventing illegally cultivated strawberries from reaching markets is also essential.
- What methods are being used to detect illegal agricultural activity?
- WWF used satellite images and aerial orthophotos to detect the 30,000 hectares of illegal agricultural production. A new tool from the Guadalquivir Hydrographic Confederation aids in real-time detection of illegal water pumping.
- Why do illegal strawberry farms continue to operate despite efforts to stop them?
- Despite fines and legal processes, the slow justice system and high profits from the illegal harvests make it worthwhile for some farmers, with low wages paid to seasonal workers.
- How many tons of illegally cultivated red fruits are estimated to be sold in Europe this winter?
- Approximately 30,000 tons of illegally cultivated red fruits from Huelva's greenhouses will be sold in European markets this winter, according to WWF.