How Mallorca is becoming a more sustainable island

At Engel and Völkers, we firmly believe that sustainability is key to the protection and preservation of our planet for future generations. Our natural environment is precious and we are dedicated to safeguarding natural resources in the global bid to fight climate change. We champion green spaces and low-energy architecture that has a minimal impact on the natural world. Above all, we are happy to announce that Mallorca is becoming a ‘greener’ island day by day. 

Mallorca is a natural wonder with kilometres of coastline that is home to golden coves, fish and marine life. The Tramuntana mountains are UNESCO-protected with acres and acres of forest that feeds a variety of birds and wildlife. In recent years, Mallorca’s government has recognised the urgent need to implement policies to help nurture the island. Here are some examples of how Mallorca is becoming a more environmentally-friendly destination.



Tourist tax ​

In 2016, the Balearic Government introduced a sustainable tourist tax for all visitors to the islands to infuse more money into conserving the environment and creating a more eco-friendly infrastructure. Generating an estimated 120 million euros a year, this eco-tax has funded, and will fund, many more environmental projects in Mallorca. Almost 200 natural gas buses have been purchased and, of course, electric cars and rental cars and their charging stations are now a common sight across the island. 

Cleaner roads and greener spaces

The recent introduction of a slower 80 kph speed limit on some of the island’s motorways is hoped to lead to a reduction in air and noise pollution, in addition to fewer accidents and traffic. Several years ago, central Palma and the Old Town became restricted traffic zones to reduce traffic and contamination. The town council also has big plans to make Palma a greener city with more trees and green spaces starting with the planned pedestrianisation of Calle Nuredduna from Avenidas to Plaza de las Columnas.

More recycling and less waste 

The island’s capital Palma is also joining the eco-crusade. The City of Palma has collaborated with Cleanwave, a dynamic not-for-profit initiative against single-use plastic, to install drinking water fountains across the city - now you can refill your water bottles and fight plastic waste at the same time! The excellent news is that an additional 30 fountains will be introduced this coming year which means that the estimated 1.5 million plastic bottles in daily use across the Balearic Islands will be reduced. Here at Engel and Völkers, we wholeheartedly support Cleanwave’s campaign and we recommend that you purchase one of their stylish stainless steel bottles and download their app to locate all of the refill stations. Remember: reduce, reuse, refill! 

Recycling is another key component of sustainability which can be practised by everyone at any time - bins are available across the town and all over the island. 

Going solar 

Solar panels have been popular with the island’s residents, who are lucky enough to experience over 300 sunny days a year, for a long time. Now there are plans to spend 1 million euros generated by tourist tax to install solar panels in public spaces to supply local businesses, schools, health care centres and residents with clean energy. 

Organic farming, supermarkets and markets 

An increasing number of people are adopting plant-based diets in protest against mass-farming and unethical agricultural practices. Organic and zero-waste markets which use refillable containers are also becoming more and more popular. The Sunday market at Santa María de Camí in central Mallorca is a hive of activity with a rainbow of locally-grown organic fruits and vegetables. Every Tuesday and Saturday morning, in Plaça Bisbe Berenguer Palou in central Palma, an ecological farmers’ market sells local produce and handmade bread, pastries, cheese, olive oil, honey, meat products and much more. With eighteen stores across Mallorca, Agromart is a popular organic supermarket which stocks high-quality seasonal products that are grown by local farmers. What more could you need to lead a healthy lifestyle? 

Organic restaurants  

Palma’s clean-eating restaurant scene is also thriving. Close to Palma’s weekly farmers’ market, Vegan & Raw is an organic restaurant which also offers a takeaway service, catering and events. Committed to nourishing people and the environment, Vegan & Raw’s daily menu is a dream: Vegan cheese platters or sprouted chickpea hummus for starters with homemade beetroot crackers; main dishes include Thai noodles, lasagne and burgers, and for dessert you could feast on coconut carrot cake or truffles made from Mallorquin dates and cacao. Ziva to Go, in Santa Catalina and Son Bugadelles, is a contemporary café which has a wide range of vibrant vegan, plant-based and raw dishes served in biodegradable containers. Fresh juices and smoothies, salads, desserts and even raw vegan pizza are all lovingly made with local ingredients. Simple Smart Food, located in the heart of Santa Catalina, provides delicious, nutritious smart fast food like smoothies, sandwiches and snacks. In Mallorca’s Southwest close to Cala Mayor, you should try Avocado Mallorca, a cosy restaurant that is dedicated to creating high-quality gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan dishes. Healthy wraps, salads and burgers are their speciality. Closeby in Portals Nous, Coco’s Deli is a popular breakfast and brunch spot with friendly, quick service and a range of wholesome options. 

Here at Engel and Völkers, we support these independence businesses and their quest to nurture healthy habits and sustainability. Visit our website where you will find an array of properties located in Palma, Santa Catalina and Portals Nous where, combined with plenty of sunshine and outdoor exercise, you can maintain your healthy Mediterranean lifestyle and protect the island that you call home.