For years, it was widely believed that monumental structures like the Great Wall of China or the Egyptian pyramids could be seen from space. However, this has been debunked; their dimensions make them virtually invisible to the naked eye from orbit. In contrast, there’s a vast expanse in southern Spain that stands out even from space: the “Sea of Plastic” near El Ejido.
A Shimmering Landscape of Greenhouses
Flying over Almería province, one can’t miss the dazzling white sheets stretching endlessly in all directions. This is the Mar de Plástico—a sprawling area of over 40,000 hectares (approximately 150 square miles) covered with greenhouses. These structures, made of reflective plastic, cultivate a variety of vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and melons, supplying much of Europe, especially during winter months.
From Barren Land to Agricultural Powerhouse
In the 1950s, this region was arid, saline, and battered by strong winds—hardly ideal for farming. Innovative farmers began experimenting with plastic coverings to protect the soil and retain moisture. These rudimentary shelters evolved over decades into sophisticated greenhouses, incorporating technologies like drip irrigation and hydroponics. Today, El Ejido stands as a testament to human ingenuity, transforming inhospitable terrain into a vital food source for the continent.
Thus, while ancient wonders captivate our imagination, it’s this modern agricultural marvel in Spain that’s distinctly visible from space, highlighting the profound impact of contemporary human enterprise.