Spain: Katy Perry is under investigation in Spain for reportedly filming a music video in a fragile ecosystem of sand dunes in the Balearic Islands, potentially without the required authorisation.
Katy Perry’s music video ‘Lifetimes’ features her enjoying the beaches and clubs of Ibiza and Formentera, but certain scenes shot in the sensitive sand dunes of S’Espalmador, a protected area in Formentera, have sparked concerns.
According to the Spanish government, the production company behind Katy Perry’s video did not secure the required permissions, leading to the probe. Perry herself has not publicly addressed the issue or responded to the claims.
Authorities clarified that Katy Perry is not being investigated for environmental offences, as filming is allowed in the protected area with proper authorisation. The issue is solely with the production company’s alleged failure to obtain the necessary permits.
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In a press release, the Balearic Islands’ environment department stated that the production company had not obtained the required authorisation prior to filming. Their statement also mentioned that “preliminary investigation actions have been initiated.”
A portion of the Natural Resources Management Plan specifies that “photographic, cinematographic, or videographic” recordings for a “commercial exhibition purpose” or for “advertising” require special authorisation from the Ministry of the Environment.
The dune system of S’Espalmador, one of the most biologically diverse regions of Formentera, is featured in the Lifetimes music video. S’Espalmador is an uninhabited islet about 1.8 miles long, situated north of Formentera.
Since 1980, it has been part of the natural parks of Ses Salines de Ibiza and Formentera. The regional government’s tourism website boasts that the dunes on the small, privately owned island have “great ecological value.”
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