Expansion of Anaga Biosphere Reserve Council and Formation of Youth Committee

The Cabildo of Tenerife has recently convened to discuss significant developments within the Anaga Biosphere Reserve.

Annual Meeting Highlights

The annual session of the General Council for the Anaga Biosphere Reserve, organized by the Cabildo of Tenerife’s Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies, focused on enhancing local community involvement. Key decisions included amendments to the Participation Committee’s regulations to increase its membership, the establishment of a Youth Committee, and initiatives to improve the Biosphere Reserve’s branding and signage. These changes aim to protect the economic rights of local residents and entrepreneurs.

The General Council acts as a management entity for the Cabildo, coordinating efforts to preserve the unique biodiversity of Anaga while promoting sustainable development. It serves as a decision-making platform dedicated to maintaining the area’s natural heritage and supporting its communities.

Outcomes of the Council Meeting

Blanca Pérez, the Councillor for Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security, and Emergencies, expressed satisfaction with the meeting’s outcomes, highlighting discussions on essential conservation efforts that have contributed to Anaga’s designation as a World Biosphere Reserve. She noted the expansion of citizen participation and the approval of significant initiatives, including aligning the council with the global network of Biosphere Reserves and integrating Anaga into the Global Plan and the Canary network’s Action Plan.

Furthermore, the council outlined plans for projects funded by the ‘Next Generation-EU’ initiative, which totals €3 million. These projects are crucial for reinforcing the significance of Anaga’s unique and delicate environment.

Key Decisions Made

Among the pivotal agreements reached was the increase in the number of committee members with decision-making authority, expanding from 14 to 19. This new composition will include representatives from local communities, particularly from the Southern Valleys and Santa Cruz, as well as individuals from the agricultural and educational sectors. The council also decided to conduct technical meetings in various hamlets to foster community engagement. Additionally, the mandate for the council was extended to align with that of the Rural Park Board of Anaga, increasing its duration from four to five years.

A significant topic of discussion was the evaluation of projects funded by the ‘Next Generation-EU’ under the Tourism Sustainability Plan for the Anaga Destination, which has been extended until June 2026 with a budget of €3 million. This funding will support various initiatives, including:

• Mobility improvements within the Reserve (€950,000);
• Development of paths and trails (€359,000);
• A bird watching project (€115,000);
• Modernization of the Visitor Centre at Cruz del Carmen (€246,000);
• Renovation of Casa de los Zamoranos as a tourist office and interpretation center (€678,000);
• Accessibility enhancements in recreational areas of the Anaga Rural Park (€144,000);
• Ecotourism development (€163,000);
• Launch of the Anaga RB brand, a key objective (€254,000).

Formation of the Youth Committee

The council approved the creation of a Youth Committee designed to empower young individuals aged 14 to 35 who have connections to Anaga. This initiative aims to address the issue of depopulation in the region’s hamlets and towns.

Community representatives also voiced concerns regarding potential changes to signage and organization within the Reserve, emphasizing the need for timely communication and respect for the economic rights of those impacted. The integration of the Anaga Biosphere Reserve into broader planning frameworks was discussed to ensure coordinated efforts across various projects.

Significance of the Anaga Massif

The Anaga Massif was officially recognized as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO on June 9, 2015, underscoring its ecological importance and the commitment to its preservation.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife held its annual session for the Anaga Biosphere Reserve General Council.
• A Youth Committee was established to engage young residents aged 14 to 35.
• The council expanded its decision-making committee from 14 to 19 members.
• €3 million in funding was allocated for various sustainability projects in Anaga.
• The council’s mandate was extended from four to five years.
• The Anaga Massif was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2015.