Portugal's Controversial Land Law: Will It Solve the Housing Crisis or Worsen Food Security?

Government's New Land Law Under Scrutiny

The Portuguese government has announced a controversial decree-law that alters the Legal Framework for Territorial Management Instruments, known as the 'Land Law'. This change, which will take effect 30 days post-publication, allows for the reclassification of rural lands for construction purposes, particularly for housing. The reclassification will depend on municipal deliberation, granting local authorities significant power.

Political Backlash and Environmental Concerns

The Socialist Party (PS) proposed changes to the government's proposal, which were accepted, particularly concerning housing prices and construction locations. However, many in parliament, especially from the left, oppose the law, seeing it as a means to increase speculation without addressing the housing crisis. Environmental experts have warned that this law could exacerbate existing issues rather than solve them, emphasizing the need for buffer zones in urban areas to prevent crises similar to those seen in Valencia and Los Angeles.

Key Details of the Law

On December 30, amidst holiday festivities, the law was published. The President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, approved it but expressed reservations about the significant changes to land use planning. The government claims that at least 70% of the reclassified area will be designated for public or affordable housing, aiming to benefit the middle class. However, critics argue that the proposed prices could still lead to increased housing costs, with some estimates suggesting new homes could be sold up to 25% above current market values.

Calls for Parliamentary Review

In January, opposition parties initiated a review of the law, citing concerns over its potential to fuel speculation rather than addressing the housing crisis. Helena Roseta, an architect and former member of the Socialist Party, criticized the lack of public debate and called for parliamentary scrutiny.

Environmentalists' Alarm

Environmentalists, including over 600 academics, have expressed deep concern over the law, arguing it threatens agriculture, forests, and overall environmental health. They believe the reclassification could fragment essential agricultural land, jeopardizing food security. Francisco Ferreira, president of the environmental association Zero, highlighted the unnecessary nature of reclassifying rural lands when there are already urbanized areas available for development.

Implications for Infrastructure and Food Security

The law's implementation may lead to new urban areas requiring extensive infrastructure, which will ultimately fall on taxpayers. Environmentalists warn that allowing construction on sensitive lands could increase risks of flooding and landslides, echoing past disasters in other cities. They argue that prioritizing land for construction over agricultural use could lead to long-term food insecurity, stressing the need to rethink urban planning with a focus on sustainability and food production.

The Call for Revocation

Many experts, including Helena Freitas, argue for the immediate revocation of the law, emphasizing the need for careful planning that considers environmental impacts rather than rushing to meet housing demands. They advocate for a more sustainable approach to urban development, prioritizing ecological integrity and food security over short-term construction goals.