Tenerife Commits €9 Million to Environmental Restoration and Conservation Efforts

The government of Tenerife has unveiled a substantial investment initiative aimed at revitalizing and preserving the island’s unique natural environments. This strategic move underscores the administration’s commitment to sustainability and ecological health, particularly in the wake of recent environmental challenges.

Overview of Funding Sources

The island’s administration has devised a plan to channel the entire revenue of €4.8 million generated from a newly implemented fuel tax into various environmental initiatives. This funding is part of a broader commitment that exceeds €9 million, specifically earmarked for the restoration and conservation of natural areas throughout Tenerife. The decision to allocate these funds reflects a proactive approach to environmental management, particularly in light of the ecological impacts faced by the region.

Key Projects and Objectives

Among the pivotal projects that will benefit from this funding initiative are the restoration of areas severely affected by the catastrophic forest fire of 2023, extensive reforestation efforts, and the execution of the Medianías Plan. The initiative also includes targeted actions within the Teide National Park, focusing on ecological recovery and promoting sustainable practices. These projects are designed not only to restore damaged ecosystems but also to enhance the overall resilience of Tenerife’s natural landscapes.

The revenue generated from the new fuel tax, which imposes a charge of one cent euro per liter, is expected to be allocated entirely to projects managed by the Insular Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Safety and Emergencies. This dedicated funding stream ensures that the resources will be used exclusively for initiatives aimed at preventing forest fires, rehabilitating degraded ecosystems, and conserving vital soil resources.

Amendment of Tax Ordinance

In a recent development, the official amendment to the tax ordinance regulating the fuel levy was published, following its approval during the October plenary session. This tax measure is part of the current budget established by the Canary Islands Government and is currently applicable only to Tenerife and Gran Canaria. The implementation of this tax reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable funding mechanisms to support environmental conservation efforts.

Detailed Investment Allocation

The budget for investments financed by the forest cent highlights several significant initiatives aimed at restoring and enhancing Tenerife’s natural environments. Notable allocations include:

• €4,613,972 dedicated to restoration efforts following the 2023 forest fire, addressing the immediate ecological damage.
• €300,000 allocated for actions related to the pine forests in Teide National Park, which includes the recovery of cedar and broom species.
• €1,184,700 set aside for the eradication of invasive flora that threatens local biodiversity.
• €563,071 earmarked for forest repopulation initiatives, aiming to restore native tree species.
• €1,460,450 allocated to the Medianías Plan, which focuses on sustainable land use and conservation practices.

Enhancing Management of Teide National Park

The Natural Environment Department envisions that the management of Teide National Park will set a new standard in Europe once the full transfer of responsibilities to the Cabildo of Tenerife is completed. This ambitious initiative involves a total investment of €202 million, which includes significant enhancements to the Primary Sector. Key actions will involve increasing the number of environmental agents monitoring the park from four to thirteen, thereby bolstering oversight and conservation efforts. Additionally, the development of a new Mobility Plan, along with a revised Usage and Management Master Plan (PRUG), is set to be implemented soon, further enhancing the park’s sustainability.

Strategic Focus Areas for Conservation

This comprehensive investment strategy aims to tackle four critical areas of environmental concern, ensuring that Tenerife’s natural spaces are preserved and restored for future generations. By addressing these key areas, the government hopes to foster a healthier ecosystem that can withstand the pressures of climate change and human activity.

Key points

• The Tenerife government is investing over €9 million in natural area restoration.
• €4.8 million will come from a new fuel tax of one cent per liter.
• Planned projects include restoration after the 2023 forest fire and reforestation efforts.
• The tax ordinance amendment was approved in October and applies to Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
• Significant funding is allocated for invasive species eradication and forest repopulation.
• The management of Teide National Park is set to become a European benchmark with a €202 million investment.