The water theft on their estate next to Doñana brought the Alba family "illegal" profits of over 5 million euros
The Alba family illicitly profited more than 5 million euros from illegal water extraction on their estate in Aznalcázar, Spain.
The Alba family, known for their historical lineage, has come under scrutiny for allegedly extracting water illegally from the Aljarafe Sur aquifer using unauthorized wells on their estate in Aznalcázar, located adjacent to the famous Doñana National Park. According to estimates by the Civil Guard, the illegal activity between 2014 and 2021 resulted in profits exceeding 5 million euros, raising significant ecological and legal concerns.
The water extraction was conducted by Eurotécnica Agraria, a company associated with the Alba family, whose financial records revealed total earnings of 5,144,914.97 euros during the period in question. The Confederación Hidrográfica del Guadalquivir (CHG), responsible for water management in the region, intervened after former workers reported the illegal water theft, leading to the closure of the wells. This development highlights ongoing issues related to water rights and environmental protection in a region that is already under pressure from agricultural demands and conservation efforts.
The case emphasizes the critical balance between heritage and ecological responsibility in Spain, particularly in the Andalusian region where water scarcity has become an increasing concern. The Alba family's connection to historical properties, coupled with modern agricultural practices, showcases the tensions faced when traditional practices intersect with contemporary environmental regulations and the increasing need for sustainable water management in the context of climate change.