Proposals for sustainable urbanism
The organization Ecologists in Action has proposed a series of measures to face the flood risks associated with urban development. In the words of Josep Hurtado, lawyer and active member of the entity, it is crucial to suspend any urban plan that involves areas vulnerable to flooding, as well as to consider the expropriation of existing buildings in these risk areas.
Stories of irresponsible urbanization
Hurtado emphasized that, over time, projects have been approved in areas that were not suitable for construction. This situation has caused a situation of alarm at the possibility of episodes like the one in Valencia being repeated in Catalonia. In addition, the environmental organization requests a comprehensive review of the current urban planning regulations to ensure that future buildings respect sustainability and safety criteria.
Projects in danger
One of the most worrying examples is the Tres Xemeneies urban master plan, which affects flood prone areas in Sant Adrià de Besòs and Badalona. Despite the risks, permits have been given for the construction of homes and hotels. Another notable case is the Ponent a Gavà plan, where thousands of homes are allowed in areas with high flood potential.
The need to revise the regulations
Hurtado points out that it is essential to update urban planning legislation, taking into account the effects of climate change that were not previously considered. This review should include a master plan that analyzes and regulates areas where it has already been built, with the possibility of expropriating buildings that do not comply with the new regulations.
The Government in the face of ecological pressure
Faced with this situation, Hurtado expresses doubts about the Government’s willingness to take effective measures, citing examples such as the expansion of El Prat airport, which has received government support. If the Government does not act sincerely and effectively, the environmental organization is prepared to take legal action to defend the territory.
An airport in the spotlight
The Zeroport platform, which promotes the reduction of infrastructure such as the port and the airport, considers that El Prat should be the first infrastructure to be reviewed. Despite the mild effects it has suffered, Manel del Llano, a member of Zeroport, warns that the effects of climate change could worsen, endangering the infrastructure and the surrounding areas.
An uncertain future
Del Llano also warns that the current situation of the airport can increase the risk of flooding in the adjacent areas and emphasizes that the large surface covered with cement prevents proper infiltration of water. The need for a deep review of these infrastructures becomes increasingly urgent in a context of accelerated climate change.