Rare earths have become the focus of a debate that goes far beyond the local economy.In recent months, the possible investigation and exploitation of these precious minerals in Fuerteventura has generated great controversy in Canarian society, being a source of disagreement between political parties, institutions and citizen groups.
International pressure for the control and supply of rare earths is setting the pulse of global geopolitics.In this context, the Canary Islands have been identified as a possible new player in the market for these resources, which has revived the debate on the future of its natural spaces, the island economy and the social impact.
Institutional and social rejection of rare earth extraction
Fuerteventura has been placed in the media spotlight following proposals to conduct research to determine the potential for rare earth mining on the island. However, both the Canary Islands Government and the regional Parliament and local institutions have reiterated on numerous occasions Their absolute refusal to develop any mining initiative related to these minerals.
Fernando Clavijo, current president of the Canary Islands, He has been blunt in stating that neither the research nor the exploitation of rare earths will be permitted in Fuerteventura. nor in the rest of the archipelago. This position has the majority support of the citizens of Fuerteventura and their representatives, who consider that The environmental, social and economic value of the territory is above any extractive interest.
In the parliamentary sphere, voices such as that of Manuel DomÃnguez, regional vice president, have stressed that although, Its extraction cannot be carried out at the expense of tourism or protected areas. that characterize the island.
During several parliamentary sessions, the importance of listening to the people of Fuerteventura and taking into account the insular and ecological specificity of the Canary Islands before considering any type of mining prospecting has been highlighted. The unanimity around environmental protection has been pointed out as decisive.
Political debate and conflict of interest over the future of mining
The political debate is onVox, through its spokesperson Nicasio Galván, has openly defended rare earth research as a way to diversify the island's economy and strengthen the Canary Islands' position in technological and renewable energy production. According to this group, There is no environmental risk in the initial stages of prospecting, which they would consider comparable to geothermal drilling, while other organizations warn of the danger of opening the door to a progressive exploitation process.
From the rest of the parties, such as PSOE, Coalición Canaria or Nueva Canarias, The lack of information and transparency has been criticized in some procedures, demanding that every decision be supported by society and adequate legislative control. It is also emphasized that Permits to explore may give the right to extract and exploit, something that raises concerns due to the potential environmental impact. and because of the impact it would have on the main source of income: tourism.
The regional government, for its part, has reiterated that Any study or processing is carried out in strict compliance with the law. and in direct response to parliamentary mandates, which initially opened the door to investigation and later closed it in the face of growing social rejection.
This creates a climate of tension marked by accusations of electoralism, misinformation, and alleged deception of citizens. Some sectors consider that these controversies are due more to political struggles than to the true common interest., while others insist on the importance of preventing "the island from being sold to the highest bidder."
The international context of the rare earth industry
Beyond the local debate, the issue of rare earths is directly related to the global geopolitical landscape.China continues to control more than 90% of the world's processing capacity for these minerals, which are essential for the technology industry, electric vehicles, and renewable energy. Beijing's control has motivated the European Union to seek alternatives to reduce its external dependence.
While negotiations and diplomatic balancing act continue, the Canary Islands become an example of the difficulty in combining . The situation reflects the complexity of deciding on critical resources, where the protection of the territory and social participation are essential to define the path to follow.
