The Mijas Town Council has installed a solar indicator at El Bombo beach that measures ultraviolet radiation in real-time. The device, called 'uvilisco', is part of the 'Soludable' project and aims to raise awareness about photoprotection.
El Bombo beach in Mijas now has a new ally against skin cancer. It is a solar clock, named 'uvilisco', which informs bathers of the level of ultraviolet (UV) radiation they are exposed to according to the time of day. The Councillor for Beaches, Daniel Gómez, presented the device this morning, which functions like a conventional sundial but is adapted to measure the UV index.
The 'uvilisco' has been developed by the University of Málaga and is part of the 'Soludable' project, a skin cancer prevention initiative promoted by the Costa del Sol University Hospital. Mijas already holds a special 'Soludable-Blue Flag' recognition, which acknowledges beaches that incorporate photoprotection and sustainability measures.
The operation of the indicator is simple: a one-metre tall object casts its shadow on a graduated surface at intervals of the ultraviolet index (UVI), which is determined daily by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). The longer the shadow, the lower the radiation; at noon, the shadow is shorter and the risk is higher.
Gómez highlighted that Mijas "is committed to photoprotection as a way to care for the health of residents and visitors." The councillor added that he hopes the solar clock "will be widely used to raise awareness of the dangers of excessive sun exposure." The installation adds to other preventive measures along the Mijas coast, such as the distribution of free sunscreen at lifeguard stations.
The 'Soludable' project was launched in 2020 with the support of the Health and Families Department of the Andalusian Government and collaboration from various institutions and companies. Its aim is to promote healthy sun exposure habits in health, educational, tourism, and workplace settings. Since its launch, it has become a national and European benchmark in photoprotection.
El Bombo beach is one of the busiest in Mijas, especially during peak season. With this new device, users can check the UV index in real-time and take precautions, such as applying sunscreen, seeking shade, or avoiding the sun during peak hours. The indicator has been installed in a visible spot on the promenade, near the main access point.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Spain, and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation is its main preventable cause. According to data from the Spanish Association Against Cancer, over 20,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the country. Initiatives like this solar clock aim to reduce those figures through public awareness.
The Mijas Town Council plans to evaluate the use of the 'uvilisco' during this summer season and, if the response is positive, will consider installing more similar devices at other beaches in the municipality. For now, bathers at El Bombo can already check the radiation level and adjust their sun exposure accordingly.
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