In an unusual twist, ice rinks for skating have been at the center of a debate in Catalonia due to the drought affecting the region, especially the Barcelona area.
These installations, emblematic of the Christmas season, have been criticized due to their water consumption and the high energy costs associated with the creation of ice in a context where the climate crisis demands cost-saving measures.
Although some tracks, such as the one in Barcelona or Manlleu, use polyurethane, a synthetic material, others rely significantly on large quantities of water. In view of this situation, the Department of Climate Action has pointed out that the Special Drought Plan (PES) does not specifically address these water uses.
According to sources from the Regional Ministry, the decision on the installation of these tracks has been delegated to the municipalities, considering to evaluate the need for such infrastructures at a time of critical drought.
The debate on ice rinks in Catalonia
In the event that the municipalities choose to maintain the ice rinks, the Government stresses the importance that the consumption of these does not affect the ability to comply with the maximum allowances permitted by the PES in each locality, considering the phases of exceptionality, pre-emergency or emergency.
Some municipalities have given up on the trails in response to the drought, while others, with varied political orientations, have decided to go ahead with this Christmas attraction.
The dilemma is accentuated by concrete examples. In Manresa and Sant Feliu de Llobregat, water consumption for the ice rinks amounts to 20,000 and 25,000 liters respectively.
In Sant Feliu de Llobregat, the installation of an ice rink during a weather emergency situation has sparked controversy and threats of complaints from the opposition.
The measures taken by the City Council
The City Council will assume the necessary water supply for the infrastructure, arguing that the track contributes to the economic revitalization of the municipality and local commerce.
Some cities have adopted cost-saving measures. Vilafranca del Penedès and Platja d’Aro use non-potable water from wells, Girona has reduced the thickness of ice to save water, and Olot uses reclaimed water.
Despite these efforts, the Aigua És Vida platform has expressed criticism, pointing out that an ice rink can consume the same amount of water as 233 people in a day, and highlights the negative symbolic impact at a time when water saving is being urged.
The debate raises questions about the consistency of maintaining these leads in times of climate crisis. In addition to water consumption, there is high energy consumption, which in some cases exceeds 35,000 kilowatt hours, equivalent to the consumption of several homes.
Ultimately, the decision rests with the municipalities.
