On World Climate Day, IbizaPreservation’s Sustainability Observatory emphasises the critical need for immediate action in implementing mitigation and adaptation measures to address rising temperatures and the climate emergency
Ibiza, 26-03-2024 – In recognition of World Climate Day, IbizaPreservation’s Sustainability Observatory has released a new analysis of temperature data from the island of Ibiza over the past 70 years, which reveals a clear upward trend. Specifically, the average annual maximum temperatures have risen by 1.74 ºC, while the average minimum temperatures have increased by 0.74 ºC during the same period.
In both cases, the trend indicates a future of increasing average temperatures. Specifically, average maximum temperatures are projected to rise by 2.5ºC every 100 years, while average minimum temperatures, are expected to increase by 1ºC over the same period.
The Mediterranean basin is a climate change hotspot, designated as the ground zero in Europe according to the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) published on 20 March 2023. This report is more compelling than ever, confirming that the impacts of climate change “hit” this region “harder than other parts of the world.”
Itziar Arratibel, technical coordinator of the Sustainability Observatory, stated, “We cannot overlook the fact that the IPCC has warned that the window to avoid global warming of less than 1.5ºC is closing rapidly; therefore, urgent measures and a collective effort are needed now more than ever.”
In addition to its temperature analysis, as part of its 2023 Sustainability Report—fully funded by the Consell of Ibiza—the Observatory has also compiled data on rainfall over the past 70 years, revealing a downward trend. Specifically, the last decade from 2014 to 2023 recorded the lowest average rainfall since 1973, with a total of 374.24 litres per square meter. This represents a 14.47% decrease compared to the precipitation levels observed between 1974 and 1983, which had the highest average rainfall.
The Sustainability Observatory reminds us that the Balearic Islands have been in a climate emergency since it was declared by the Balearic Government on 8 November 2019 and that the island of Ibiza has been in a drought pre-alert since September 2022.
“It is very concerning that the island has been unable to move out of this pre-alert status for such an extended period,” insisted Itziar Arratibel, who further explained, “There is a direct correlation with the reduction in rainfall but also with the overexploitation of aquifers. Combating climate change also means taking the necessary measures to prevent the overexploitation of groundwater and the illegal and irregular use of water resources.”
IbizaPreservation’s Sustainability Observatory stressed the urgent need for drastic measures aimed at energy transition and water efficiency, linked to consumption and spending patterns. “We need brave policies and a profound cultural shift,” emphasised Arratibel.
