We inhabit a world of increased drought, severe storms, loss of species, and rising oceans brought on by climate change. As an expat relocating to Malaga, soaking up the sun and enjoying the rich Spanish culture is one thing. However, it is crucial to make a conscious choice to reduce your impact on climate change. In Malaga, more and more people are excited to perform eco-friendly practices, as the city’s goal is to become greener. You, as an expat, should help achieve this goal by practicing sustainable living. By providing tips and insights, this guide aims to help you get started on this journey.
Sustainable living in Malaga
Before jumping to why you, as a resident, should perform eco-friendly practices, let’s cover why Malaga is a sustainable city. To begin with, the city benefits from enough sunlight, solar and wind power have become its main energy investments. Additionally, to decrease carbon emissions, Malaga is constantly improving its already well developed public transportation system. Furthermore, to minimize the environmental impact of tourism, the city promotes eco-friendly accommodations and local food sourcing. Moreover, due to the water scarcity in Malaga, the province implemented water conservation measures. These measures include desalination plants, efficient irrigation systems and advising residents to reduce their water waste. Now let us move on to relocation practices for expats in Malaga.
Recycling and waste management
Go by the golden trio of sustainability, reduce, reuse and recycle. When doing your groceries at any supermarket like Dia, prioritize buying reusable bags. Not only is this practice cost-effective, as you won’t have to buy new bags for every shopping day, but it is also sustainable. You are reducing the number of plastic bags that you have to throw away after use. Pretty much the same with single use plastics like water bottles, by using a non-plastic water bottle, you are investing in reduced ocean waste. Malaga already helps you out on this matter with their recycling program. So, make sure to learn the sorting guidelines and improve your waste management level.
Eco-friendly transportation
Malaga has a comfortable and well-connected transportation system. It’s public transportation includes several buses that either travel within touristic spots, to the airport or to neighboring areas. Trains are also another option, with various destinations for a cheap price. However, do you know that the best public transportation in Malaga is a bike? Not only does it help you stay active, but you can also easily get around the city of Malaga. The city offers multiple bike rental agencies, with the first half hour free of charge. It does not matter how long you plan to bike, as the prices are always super low. So, spending less while taking care of your health and the environment is a win, right?
Local and organic food
Eating local dishes in Malaga comes with multiple benefits beyond just immersing yourself in the culture. Local dishes are made with top-quality ingredients from local farmers. By eating locally, you are supporting local farmers and helping in the preservation of local farming practices. To get fresh and clean fruits and veggies, you could visit local farmer’s market stands. By using locally sourced ingredients, you are minimizing food waste and contributing to eco-friendliness.
Water conservation
Malaga’s government made it known to residents that the current water scarcity is not mild. As the city gets approximately 300 dry days, it was always considered a rather water-dense city. However, it reached a new low in 2023, with only 179 mm of rain recorded throughout the whole year. Avoid the government announcing a state of emergency where a water limit is introduced per household. You can contribute to this by saving every drop of water possible. Opt for showers instead of baths, have shorter showers or just turn off the water while brushing your teeth. Do not just do these practices during the summer season but throughout the whole year. I mean, basically, it feels like summer 3/4 of the year in Malaga, right?
Renewable energy
Malaga City is already super focused on harnessing the power of renewable energy. Luckily enough, the sunlight in the city makes it easier to use solar panels. Nonetheless, you as an individual can always lend a hand by turning off electricity when you are not at home. Additionally, you can invest in an automatic light switch, when there is no movement, the lights are shut off. Furthermore, if the weather is not up to a point where you need a jacket, do not turn on your heating. Just wear layers on layers if you have to.
Conclusion
You should view incorporating sustainable practices into your life as a responsibility. Every human is somehow responsible for the current climate change. Which is why, together, we should all include eco-friendly practices to reduce the impact that we contribute to. Spread awareness and involve yourself in local community initiatives like cleaning the Malagueta beach.