Every decision we make, from the food on our plates to the cars we drive, impacts our environment daily. Fortunately, an increasing number of individuals, both here in Ibiza and globally, recognise the importance of collective action and intentional living to safeguard and preserve our island—and the planet as a whole.
In Ibiza, IbizaPreservation, a non-profit at the forefront of sustainability, actively oversees the sustainability of our island through various projects and movements, such as Plastic Free Ibiza, Ibiza Produce, Ibiza Posidonia, the Marine Forum, and the Ibiza Sustainability Observatory. Together with our regular donations in support of these initiatives, we at Prestige Properties Ibiza aim to also reduce our own carbon emissions and address local environmental issues.
Tourists and visitors can play a huge role in minimising their environmental impact during their stay. Simple yet impactful changes, such as managing energy consumption, opting for local, eco-friendly products, and adopting conscious habits, can collectively make a difference.
So, in this spirit, let’s start with our latest guide to empower eco-conscious practices to contribute positively to the environment when visiting this beautiful island.
Energy Efficiency in Ibiza
Keep your water consumption in check
Efficient water usage is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint. Consider this: when washing dishes or brushing your teeth, a quick action like turning off the tap can save more than a litre of water in just 20 seconds. Water conservation becomes quite significant in light of the frequency of these daily activities.
The same principle applies to showers, especially during hot weather and beach seasons when water usage increases. Being mindful of your water consumption and making a conscious effort to save water in these routine activities can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Check out the Five Golden Rules for Saving Water in Ibiza here.
Reduce Energy Consumption in Your Ibiza Villa
Manage your electricity usage by avoiding leaving electronic devices on throughout the day. Switch off electrical appliances when unnecessary, and turn them on only when necessary. For instance, refraining from charging your mobile phone overnight can save significant energy, as the charging process typically takes just a few hours.
Consider scheduling high-energy appliances, like dishwashers and washers, for nighttime operation. Additionally, use natural heat and sunlight to air-dry laundry outdoors instead of using a dryer.
Maintain a pleasant indoor climate by making the most of natural resources. Utilise shades and open windows during the warmer months to cool your villa, reducing energy-consuming air-conditioning units –– and when using air-conditioners, ensure windows are closed. Opt for natural light over artificial lighting and turn off lights in unoccupied rooms whenever possible. These small yet thoughtful practices can minimise your villa’s energy consumption.
Waste Management and Recycling in Ibiza
As outlined by IbizaPreservation, mindful waste and recycling practices are encouraged, and visitors should consider the following guidelines:
- Prioritise thoughtfully – purchase only what is essential.
- Minimise packaging – opt for items with minimal packaging.
- Decline plastic bags – carry your reusable bag or basket when shopping (don’t forget you can request one of our eco-friendly "Prestige Going Green" reusable Tote bags from your Prestige agent!).
- Reject single-use plastics – choose reusable alternatives.
- Say no to plastic straws –– essentially, these are banned in Ibiza.
Promoting environmental stewardship in Ibiza
While our island relies heavily on tourism for its economic prosperity, the influx of luxury and leisure activities each year threatens our ecosystem’s conservation and sustainability in Ibiza. Making a positive impact is within reach with these straightforward tips.
- Mind your cigarette ends – refrain from littering streets and natural areas, particularly forests, nature trails and beaches. Beyond fire risk, it’s crucial that we respect our beaches and natural surroundings. Though designated bins may be scarce outside urban areas, heat-proof ashtray wallets, available at tobacco stores, offer a convenient solution for proper disposal
- Protect marine life by resisting the temptation to take souvenirs of Posidonia (seaweed) and the environment at sea. When sailing or beachcombing, leave stones, shells, plants, and animals undisturbed in their natural habitats.
- Choose eco-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin without harming marine life. Collect your waste after a beach visit, avoid discarding anything into the sea, and anchor your boat in designated areas to avoid Posidonia (seaweed) meadows.
- Embrace eco-friendly transportation – consider walking or biking to nearby destinations instead of driving. It’s healthier and more environmentally friendly. When driving is necessary, prioritise public transportation, and, if necessary, maximise carpooling to reduce road congestion. Similarly, minimise land-based activities with high pollution levels, such as safari tours and quad biking, to reduce environmental impact. Check out this blog with some eco-friendly activities in Ibiza.
Select Conscious & Local Businesses in Ibiza
Try and shop for products and services from local businesses and those who advocate for sustainability, eco-friendly products, fair trade, or have Corporate Social Responsibility as part of their business ethos. Even businesses that ensure their employees have the right contracts and protections – such as insurance – and pay taxes, are helping the Ibizan community and the environment.
Go to Google Maps to see all the eco-shops available on the island.
Every action we take will make a difference. The most important thing to remember is that our actions will result in a cleaner, greener island, both now and in the future. Our company, Prestige Properties, is fully committed to promoting energy efficiency here in Ibiza as a firm supporter of green living. If you are eco-conscious, you may also be interested in our recent publications "Energy Efficient Homes: A Guide for Homeowners in Ibiza" article and "Energy Efficient Homes: A Guide for Homeowners Part 2" aimed at encouraging property owners and buyers to create energy-efficient homes.
Why not take a look at our 2024 Holiday Villa Rentals for your next Ibiza holiday with us at Prestige Properties Ibiza Holiday Rentals?
Updated: January 2024 for the latest accuracy.
