Exploring Spain’s Environmental Battles Post-Franco: A Legacy of Activism
This is an excerpt from Incite-DEM’s comprehensive historical review of civic participation and engagement in Europe, the first of its kind, focusing on democratic innovations aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Our research focused on the development of democratic innovations from the post-World War II era to the present, highlighting key periods such as the rise of participatory budgeting and deliberative mini publics in the 1980s and 1990s.
The full research will be published in Spring 2025.
In the years following Franco’s dictatorship, Spain witnessed pivotal environmental conflicts that shaped the nation’s democratic transition and environmental consciousness. These struggles—El Saler (Valencia), La Industrial Química (Zaragoza), and the ongoing Erandio protests (Basque Country)—highlighted the power of citizen activism in the face of industrial and governmental pressures.
El Saler, Valencia (1973-1986)
El Saler was a natural treasure at risk of being lost to urbanization, driven by Franco’s Minister of Tourism, Manuel Fraga, and real estate developers. Citizens rallied under the banner “El Saler per al poble” (El Saler for the people), collecting signatures and pressuring the government to protect the area. Their efforts paid off in December 1974, with the cancellation of 23 planned apartment towers and the preservation of 70 hectares of sand dunes. The movement also inspired an exhibition at the College of Architects in Valencia, advocating for the restoration of the forest.
La Industrial Química, Zaragoza (1976-1983)
In Zaragoza, residents, students, and workers united against the harmful effects of chemical industries in their community. The neighborhood movement encouraged workers to incorporate environmental concerns into their demands, leading to a broader struggle for a healthier living environment. Their persistence ultimately led to the relocation of these industries, marking a significant victory for grassroots activism.
Erandio Protests “Movilizaciones del Gas” (1969-Present)
In the Basque Country, the industrial pollution from chemical plants in towns like Barakaldo and Erandio sparked ongoing protests. Starting in 1969, when two protesters tragically lost their lives, the movement continues today. Local communities still fight against air pollution, demanding accountability from chemical companies.
These conflicts, though often overlooked, played a crucial role in integrating environmental issues into Spain’s emerging democracy. The right to a safe environment, enshrined in the 1978 Spanish Constitution, is a testament to the impact of these early movements. The legacy of these struggles serves as a reminder of the power of collective action in shaping a more just and sustainable world.
