Water: Our Most Precious Resource and the Challenge of the Farmer in Tenerife
In Tenerife, known for its temperate climate and impressive landscapes, a less known but equally critical reality is hidden: the scarcity of water for agriculture. In Sanus Market, an eco-friendly store dedicated to selling organic fruits and vegetables on the island, we are deeply connected to the challenges that local farmers face, especially when it comes to water management.
The Water Situation in Tenerife: Between Galleries and Challenges.
Tenerife faces a complex and challenging water situation. Although the island is surrounded by the vast Atlantic Ocean, access to freshwater remains a critical concern, especially for the agricultural sector. Precipitation on the island is scarce and, in many cases, irregular, which is aggravated by the climatic variability associated with climate change. This translates into a limited availability of surface water, leading the region to significantly depend on its aquifers and water galleries.
The water galleries, a technical innovation adapted to the volcanic geology of the island, are horizontal tunnels that penetrate the mountains to intercept the water that filters through the rocky substrate. These tunnels, which can extend several kilometers into the mountain, capture the water accumulated in the underground layers and direct it to the surface. This technique, which has been fundamental for agriculture in Tenerife, allows water to be collected that would otherwise be inaccessible, providing a vital resource for irrigating crops in an environment where surface sources are insufficient.
However, the effectiveness of water galleries is directly affected by climatic variations and prolonged dry seasons. During dry periods, the recharge level of the aquifers decreases, reducing the flow of water available in these galleries. This situation is exacerbated by the increase in demand for water for agriculture and human consumption, which puts the sustainability of the system at risk.
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Furthermore, the maintenance and expansion of the galleries requires considerable investments. Building and maintaining these structures in volcanic terrain is technically challenging and expensive. This underlines the need for effective water management policies that not only consider existing technologies such as galleries, but also explore new solutions such as desalination and improving stormwater collection and storage systems.
In conclusion, the water galleries represent an ingenious solution to water scarcity in Tenerife, but they also highlight the vulnerability of the islands to climatic and economic changes. The dependence on such infrastructure underlines the urgency of adopting more sustainable and resilient water management practices, thus ensuring the long-term viability of Canarian agriculture and the sustainability of the island environment.
The Impact on Farmers
Tenerife's farmers, often small family producers, face a constant struggle. Despite the low prices they often receive for their crops, their commitment to the land and community never wavers. Ayoze Santana, a local farmer with whom Sanus Market spoke recently, he described how a lack of water not only reduces his yields, but also increases his operating costs. “Every drop of water is gold to us,” she told us, “and every year it becomes more difficult to keep the crops healthy.”
Possible solutions
Faced with this challenge, our farmers are not alone. There are several strategies and solutions in development to help mitigate the impact of water scarcity. One of them is drip irrigation technology, which maximizes water use by directing it directly to the base of the plants, thus reducing waste. Additionally, desalination, although expensive, offers another potential water source. Combining these technologies with sustainable agricultural practices may provide a way forward.
The Value of Buying Local
As consumers, we can play a crucial role in supporting our farmers. By purchasing local and organic products at stores like Sanus Market, we not only enjoy fresher and more nutritious food, but we also directly contribute to the local economy and help farmers better manage their water resources.
Towards a Sustainable Future
The water problem in Tenerife is a call to action for all of us. From farmers innovating their growing techniques to consumers consciously choosing local products, each of us has a role to play. In Sanus Market, we are committed to being part of the solution, supporting the farmers who work tirelessly to overcome these challenges and provide our food.
The resilience and dedication of our farmers deserve our support and admiration. By facing these challenges together, we can ensure a more sustainable future for our agriculture and for our communities. Let's remember, every choice in our purchase counts and every action towards responsible consumption makes a difference.
