Climate activists carry out attack on widely recognized Basilica

In recent months, wildfires have swept across various regions of Spain, including Galicia, Castilla and León, and Extremadura, causing widespread destruction since July.

On Sunday, August 31, a Spanish climate radical group named Futuro Vegetal took action against the government's perceived inaction on the wildfires that have occurred this summer. The group protested at the Sagrada Família Basilica in Barcelona, covering the facade with red-colored powder.

Futuro Vegetal, known for their previous protests including defacing Lionel Messi's Ibiza villa and damaging museum exhibits, asserted that their action was to highlight governmental responsibility for the wildfires that have devastated parts of Spain. The slogan used by the group for their protest was "We act."

Police in Barcelona arrested several members of Futuro Vegetal at the scene of the protest. The arrested members were later released after paying fines of €600 each.

The group has been critical of illegal construction and the disproportionate environmental impact of wealthy individuals. They also criticized the government for subsidizing the meat industry, which they claim contributes to around 70% of wildfires due to land-clearing practices.

The organization hopes to pressure authorities into taking action with their protests. Futuro Vegetal has faced backlash following the protest at the Sagrada Família Basilica, but they remain undeterred in their mission to raise awareness about climate issues and the government's role in addressing them.

Authorities previously arrested 22 members, including three leaders, of Futuro Vegetal in connection with these past actions. The group has a history of protests, but this latest action at the Sagrada Família Basilica has brought their cause to the forefront of public discourse.

The wildfires in Spain have caused widespread destruction across the affected regions, and the government's response has been a topic of debate. As the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of these natural disasters, the actions of groups like Futuro Vegetal serve as a reminder of the urgent need for action on climate change and wildfire prevention.