Teide National Park Unveils Innovative Ecotax to Strengthen Conservation Efforts

Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s most visited natural attractions, is poised to introduce a new ecotax as part of its comprehensive Use and Management Plan (PRUG). This initiative aims to enhance conservation efforts within the park, ensuring the protection of its unique ecosystems and geological features.

New Charges for Visitors: A Step Towards Sustainability

The proposed ecotax will be applied to tourists visiting Teide National Park, which holds the title of the most frequented protected area in Europe. This tax is intended to fund various conservation and protection programs, and it will be integrated into the fees for several non-essential services. The announcement was made by Cabildo President Rosa Dávila during the recent Debate on the State of the Island held in May, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

For the first time, visitors will be subject to charges for specific services, including bus tours and guided routes. Additional fees will also be introduced for access to exhibitions and audiovisual presentations at key visitor centers such as Portillo, Telesforo Bravo, and Cañada Blanca. Furthermore, potential new visitor centers may also fall under this fee structure. The Juan Évora Ethnographic Museum is included in this initiative, along with services that provide essential information, monitoring, and security along the Telesforo Bravo trail, which leads to the summit of Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide.

Insights into the Updated Management Plan

The existing management plan has always allowed for the possibility of charging for certain services, although it did not specify which services would incur fees. The newly proposed PRUG aims to clarify these aspects and primarily targets tourists, both domestic and international. However, local residents will enjoy exemptions from charges for shuttle buses and will benefit from free access or discounts on other non-essential services. It remains to be seen whether there will be a distinction between residents of Tenerife and those from other parts of the island, akin to the current arrangements for the Masca gorge trail.

The updated plan, which is nearing its final approval stage, emphasizes that general access to the national park will continue to be free. Basic visitor services managed by the Cabildo, including general information and guidance, will also remain without charge. These services are designed to foster an understanding and appreciation of the park’s rich heritage while promoting ongoing conservation efforts.

This portion of the service tariffs will increase funding allocated for monitoring Spain’s summit

In addition to the ecotax, charges will apply to organized and supervised parking at various locations, including Ruleta, Cañada Blanca, and the Juan Évora Ethnographic Museum. This measure aims to implement appropriate controls in these high-traffic areas, ensuring a more organized and sustainable visitor experience.

Funding Conservation Initiatives through the Ecotax

The revenue generated from the ecotax is earmarked for funding vital conservation projects that aim to preserve the biological and geological diversity of Teide National Park. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding the park’s unique ecosystems, which are home to numerous endemic species and geological formations. The establishment of this tax is anticipated to take effect once the PRUG receives final approval and the insular corporation is granted definitive powers over the protected area from the regional government. José Miguel Ruano, the insular councilor for the Presidency, has expressed optimism that these processes will be finalized by the end of the year.

The introduction of the ecotax reflects a growing trend among protected areas worldwide to implement sustainable funding mechanisms that directly link visitor contributions to conservation efforts. By charging for certain services, Teide National Park aims to create a sustainable financial model that not only supports ongoing conservation initiatives but also enhances the overall visitor experience.

As the park prepares for the implementation of the ecotax, it is essential for visitors to understand the importance of their contributions to the preservation of this natural treasure. The funds generated will not only help maintain the park’s infrastructure but also support educational programs that promote environmental awareness and stewardship among visitors.

In conclusion, the introduction of the ecotax at Teide National Park marks a significant step towards sustainable tourism and conservation. By investing in the park’s future, both visitors and local authorities can work together to ensure that this breathtaking natural landscape remains protected for generations to come.

Key points

• Teide National Park will implement a new ecotax as part of its Use and Management Plan (PRUG).
• The ecotax will be applied to tourists and will support conservation programs.
• Charges will be introduced for specific services, including bus tours and access to visitor centers.
• Local residents will be exempt from certain charges and will benefit from discounts.
• General access to the park will remain free, along with basic visitor services.
• Revenue from the ecotax will fund conservation projects to protect the park’s biodiversity.
• The ecotax is expected to be established once the PRUG receives final approval.