POP star Katy Perry is in hot water after it was revealed that she filmed her latest music video in a protected natural area in Spain without the necessary permits.
The controversial shoot took place in the stunning dunes of s’Espalmador, a small island off the coast of Formentera that is part of a protected natural park.
Capitol Records, Perry’s label, stated that they were assured by a local production company that all necessary permits were in place.
However, the Balearic government has categorically denied granting any permits, either written or verbal.
Perry’s song ‘Lifetimes’ includes scenes of her dancing and jumping in various locations in the Pitiüses, including nightclub Dalt Vila in Ibiza.
But it also features her in the dune system on the islet of s’Espalmador, an area clearly marked as off-limits.
The incident has sparked outrage among environmentalists and local authorities alike, who argue that the unauthorised filming could have caused damage to the delicate ecosystem of the dunes.
The Balearic government has launched an investigation into the matter and is considering taking legal action against those involved.
While authorities have ruled out an environmental crime, they are probing the circumstances surrounding the shoot.
The investigation could result in a warning or a fine for breaching the rules in the protected area.
The Balearic government pointed out that while filming is occasionally permitted in such areas under strict conditions, this was not the case with Perry’s production.
The Balearic Islands are known for their beautiful beaches and diverse ecosystems, and authorities are keen to protect these valuable resources from the impact of tourism and commercial activities.