Canary Islands Take Bold Steps Towards Sustainable Mobility
The second edition of the Sustainable Mobility and Connectivity Forum, known as MOV Canarias, wrapped up on Friday at the Mencey Hotel in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. During the event, Pablo Rodríguez Valido, the Regional Minister for Public Works, Housing, and Mobility, underscored the immense potential for establishing a sustainable mobility model across the Canary Islands. His remarks set the tone for a forward-thinking dialogue on transforming transportation in the archipelago.
Rodríguez pointed out that the Canary Islands are well-positioned to access European funding aimed at enhancing mobility. He called for a unified approach among various governmental bodies to expedite the development of essential infrastructure. “We must be capable of moving through numerous land, sea, and air connections while taking care of our land,” he stated, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to mobility that respects the environment.
Framework for a Sustainable Future
During the forum, the minister elaborated on two key initiatives that the regional government is prioritizing. The first is the Sustainable Mobility Strategy for the Canary Islands, which aims to establish a transinsular axis that leverages digital technologies to improve connectivity. This strategy is designed to integrate various modes of transport, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate the islands.
The second initiative is the upcoming Sustainable Mobility Law, which seeks to unify municipal planning efforts into a cohesive framework. This law is expected to streamline regulations and promote a more coordinated approach to transportation planning across the islands, ensuring that all municipalities work towards common goals in sustainable mobility.
Innovative Plans for Tenerife’s Transport System
The final session of the forum featured a presentation by island councillor Eulalia García Silva>, who introduced the Insular Sustainable Mobility Plan for Tenerife (PIMSIT). This ambitious plan, which spans from 2035 to 2045 and is backed by a substantial budget of €5 billion, aims to significantly reduce the reliance on private vehicles. Instead, it promotes collective, connected, and accessible transport options that cater to the needs of all residents.
García highlighted that a staggering 80% of daily journeys on the island are under 10 kilometers, indicating a pressing need for improvements in everyday transport routes. The plan envisions enhancements to public transport, increased active mobility options, and the implementation of intelligent bus-VAO lanes, all designed to make short-distance travel more efficient and appealing.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Projects
Among the noteworthy projects discussed during the forum were the expansion of the tram network, the establishment of a Southern Train connecting Tenerife Sur with Costa Adeje, and the creation of a Single Insular Mobility Authority. These initiatives are expected to foster greater collaboration among various stakeholders and streamline transportation services across the island.
A lively debate featured José Ángel Hernández Ponce, General Secretary of FET, and Marta María Domínguez Herrera, Vice-Rector of the University of La Laguna. Both speakers emphasized the importance of shared mobility solutions and called for immediate actions such as the development of park-and-ride facilities, expanded school transport options, and effective regulation of loading and unloading zones. Their insights highlighted the multifaceted nature of mobility challenges and the need for innovative solutions.
Domínguez pointed out the necessity of a robust public transport system in a fragmented territory like the Canary Islands, noting its significant economic and social implications. Hernández echoed this sentiment, stressing that the mobility plan must evolve into a lasting political agreement to secure the necessary investments for its successful implementation.
In his closing remarks, Rodríguez expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts made by the Cabildo and reaffirmed the commitment to advancing infrastructure projects. He mentioned the addition of third lanes on the TF-1 and TF-5 highways, as well as new interchanges, as crucial steps towards improving connectivity. He asserted that the people of the Canary Islands require real, coordinated solutions and reiterated the importance of making the Southern Train a reality within both insular and regional planning.
The MOV Canarias forum has emerged as a vital platform for discussions surrounding land, sea, and air connectivity. Featuring a month of presentations and debates, the event was organized by the Government of the Canary Islands in collaboration with the Cabildos of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, port authorities, public universities, and companies such as Binter and Global. This collaborative effort has solidified the forum’s position as a key reference point for advancing sustainable and connected mobility across the islands.
Key points
- Pablo Rodríguez Valido emphasized the historic opportunity for sustainable mobility in the Canary Islands.
- The region is eligible for European funds to support mobility transformation.
- The Sustainable Mobility Strategy aims to create a transinsular axis supported by digitalization.
- The Insular Sustainable Mobility Plan for Tenerife is backed by a €5 billion budget.
- 80% of daily journeys on the island are under 10 kilometers.
- Key projects include expanding the tram network and establishing a Southern Train.
- The forum highlighted the need for a robust public transport system and collaborative efforts.
