In the southeast of Spain, the so-called “sea of plastic” in Almería has become one of the most important agricultural areas in the world. Composed of a vast network of white plastic greenhouses, this region is famous for its impressive scale, visible even from space. It has also become a global reference in intensive farming, renowned for its extraordinary productivity and efficient resource management.
A Global Agricultural Hub
The agricultural sector in Almería has not only driven the local economy, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, but it has also promoted research and development in agro-industry. Scientific institutions and technological centers have collaborated closely with farmers to improve crop efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Furthermore, the region has established itself as a global leader in sustainable agriculture, utilizing advanced irrigation systems and renewable energy within its greenhouses.
Pedro Duque, the Spanish astronaut, has confirmed that the “sea of plastic” is the only human-made structure visible from the International Space Station (ISS), highlighting its high solar reflectivity. However, this agricultural innovation also faces significant environmental challenges.
Features of the “Sea of Plastic”
- Massive Extension: It covers over 40,000 hectares in one of the driest regions of Spain.
- Visibility from Space: The white polyethylene roofs reflect sunlight, making this structure visible from space.
- High Agricultural Production: It generates between 2.5 and 3.5 million tons of fruits and vegetables annually, acting as a major economic driver for the region.
- Advanced Technology: The greenhouses utilize techniques such as drip irrigation, hydroponics, and climate control to optimize production and water efficiency.
- Environmental Impact: Challenges include the management of plastic waste and its negative effects on the surrounding environment.
- Controlled Climate: The greenhouses provide an ideal microclimate for crops, allowing for year-round production.
- Global Exportation: The agricultural products from the “sea of plastic” supply international markets, particularly across Europe.
- Landscape Transformation: The region has become a global benchmark for intensive and sustainable agriculture, adapting to extreme climatic conditions.
Agricultural Production and Economic Impact
Almería has established itself as a global leader in horticultural production due to its “sea of plastic,” generating between 2.5 and 3.5 million tons of fruits and vegetables every year.
Crops such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and melons not only supply the Spanish market but are also exported to much of Europe. This intense agricultural activity has driven the local economy, creating thousands of jobs and solidifying its position as an economic powerhouse.
Confirmation of Visibility from Space
Pedro Duque, astronaut and former Minister of Science and Innovation, has repeatedly confirmed that the “sea of plastic” is the most visible human-made structure from space. During his missions aboard the International Space Station, he pointed out that it’s not traditional architectural wonders that stand out, but this vast stretch of greenhouses in southern Spain.
NASA has also supported these claims, noting that the white polyethylene roofs covering the greenhouses reflect so much sunlight that they are easily visible from Earth’s orbit. This phenomenon has sparked investigations into the localized cooling effect it creates in the region, contrasting with surrounding areas.
Who Discovered the Megastructure Visible from Space?
NASA, along with astronaut Pedro Duque, was among the first to highlight that the greenhouses stand out in satellite images due to their remarkable capacity to reflect sunlight. These structures, essential for boosting food production, have brought with them significant environmental challenges, especially regarding the accumulation of plastic waste, which poses a threat to nearby ecosystems.