Almeria greenhouses - Large scale agricultural development

How much rainfall does the area get per year?

200mm

In the last 35 years, how many hectares of greenhouses have been built?

26,000

What three crops does it grow?

Tomatoes, cucumbers and lettuce

How much money does it bring to the area per year?

Over $1.5 billion

How many hours of sun is there per year and what is the average temperature?

3,000

20°C

What is a benefit of the average temperature?

No need for additional heating to grow crops

What is the benefit of improved transport infrastructure?

Reduced transport costs

Name five benefits of the greenhouses

use of drip irrigation has led to less water being used

low energy costs, regular supply of cheap migrant workers from N Africa/Eastern Europe

fruit and vegetables throughout the year

reduction in chemicals used

Multiplier effect with new agribusiness companies moving to the area providing high skilled jobs

Name five disadvantages of the greenhouses

Conflict between immigrants from different countries

poor living conditions for migrants

ecosystems damaged by plastic waste

aquifers drying up due to over-extraction of water

temperatures have dropped by 0.3°C due to reflection of sunlight from the greenhouses