Catalonia's Airport Expansion Plans Raise Environmental Concerns

The Spanish government's plans to expand Barcelona-El Prat Airport have sparked widespread concerns about the potential environmental damage to the nearby protected natural areas, including La Ricarda and El Remolar, which are part of the Natura 2000 network. Independent technical studies have warned that the expansion could cause irreversible ecological harm, affecting dozens of protected species and sensitive habitats. The government has proposed measures to offset the damage, but critics argue they would not be sufficient to prevent ecosystem fragmentation or comply with EU environmental directives.

Key Takeaways:

• The Government of Catalonia plans to extend Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which would directly affect protected natural areas like La Ricarda and El Remolar, part of the Natura 2000 network.
• Independent technical studies have warned that the expansion could cause irreversible ecological damage, affecting dozens of protected species and sensitive habitats.
• Proposed measures to offset environmental damage are deemed insufficient by many reports to prevent ecosystem fragmentation or comply with the Habitats and Birds Directives.
• The European Commission has been asked about communication from the Government of Catalonia regarding compensatory measures required for the project.
• The Commission believes that an expansion affecting Natura 2000 sites may not be compatible with EU legislation.
• EU law procedure for assessing compliance with the Habitats and Birds Directives would be followed if the project is implemented.

Statistics:

• 23.6.2025: The European Parliament's Question for Written Answer E-002519/2025 was submitted to the Commission.
• 2 July 2025: The question was updated with last modified information.
• Dozens of protected species and sensitive habitats are likely to be affected by the airport expansion.
• Irreversible ecological damage could occur if the expansion is implemented without sufficient environmental measures.
• The Habitats and Birds Directives and Natura 2000 network guidelines must be followed by the Eurpean Commission.

Sources:

• [European Parliament Question for written answer E-002519/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Diana Riba i Giner (Verts/ALE)]