Our society’s dependence on oil is increasing and generating great environmental, economic and social impacts here and in the countries from which we extract it.
The Balearic Islands have an almost total external energy dependence, since we import 96% of the energy we consume (we import mainly from Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Russia and Nigeria). The energy bill is estimated at about 1,000 M €, or 3.8% of the GDP of the Balearic Islands.
In 2010 the primary energy consumed in the Balearic Islands was almost 2 million tons of oil. To transport this primary energy would require 40 ships of 50,000 tons.
The current energy model perpetuates the dependence on oil and other fossil fuels (such as coal and gas) and does not improve the quality of life or the economic benefits of countries where it is exploited as Nigeria.
The dependence on oil has several negative impacts: during the investigation (prospecting) acoustic soundings can cause the death of marine animals.
http://alianzamarblava.org/es/petróleo/fases/ (spanish content)
During the extraction, there is the danger of spills that contaminate the sea or land, boat transport has risks, as we have seen on the Spanish coast with PRESTIGE and the transformation and use of hydrocarbons are responsible for climate change, the most serious threat that humanity has to face.
Video: The dangers of oil transportation – the Prestige case
In our islands, nobody wants to prospect because they pose a great threat to our economy and subsistence, which depend almost 100% of tourism. It can also adversely affect fishing, marine flora and fauna, and marine and coastal natural areas
News on the effects of oil exploitation on impoverished countries.Can we turn the problem around?
Oil companies in Nigeria caused pollution that could take 30 years to clean
Nigeria: Oil wealth flows, but hunger persists
Shell will pay Nigeria EUR 70 million for discharges into the Niger Delta
Video: Poison fire, the case of Nigeria (short version)
Video: Poison fire, the case of Nigeria (full version)
The solution is energy saving and efficiency and more implementation of renewable energy.
- How to save energy at home and be more efficient? You can ask [Amics de la Terra to do a personalized energy audit in your home, saving 20-40% of consumption and improving energy efficiency even more, or you can look up for tips to do it on your own.On the internet you can find a lot of information.
- Infographic on energy consumption in the Balearic Islands and solutions (under construction)
10 steps to promote more renewable energies (under construction):
- You can use more public transport or bicycle. In Palma we have (public bicycle). The Council of Mallorca has a project to share cars and if you travel also there are alternatives to move as sharing a car. But the most important thing is to realize that you can do something safe to be less dependent on oil. You are part of the solution and the planet needs you to move and consume energy in a sustainable way.
This project is funded by the General Directorate of Cooperation of the Balearic Government.
