In geological terms, seventy years may seem insignificant, but they hold great significance in the life of a revered National Park like Las Cañadas del Teide. Even the impact of the pandemic did not diminish the appeal of this as the most visited protected natural area in Europe, with an average of over four million tourists annually. Upholding the preservation of such a delicate and sensitive environment is already a challenge, but the crucial aspect for the future and the pending issue is to harmonise preservation with the regulation of permissible activities in the area. This becomes even more complex due to the political turmoil in recent years. The Tenerife Council, entrusted with powers in 2010, has initiated specific measures such as traffic regulation, a critical issue particularly during snowfall. However, the replacement of the outdated in-force Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG) is plagued with uncertainty, after being sidelined by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, which has not even responded to queries about the document that has completed its mandatory public display period.
Distortion. Another distorting element is the increasing violations within the Park, particularly the encroachment into protected areas, which has surged in recent years. These transgressions range from vandalism to irresponsible behavior such as taking selfies and the contentious ascent of a famous YouTuber to the Pico, leading to an extraordinary plenary session of the Cabildo called for the upcoming Tuesday, the 6th.
Priorities. Blanca Pérez, insular advisor for the Natural Environment, reflects, “At present, our priorities in the Teide National Park are focused on the efforts to recover from the aftermath of last summer’s forest fire.” This includes work in the nursery and the erection of a fence, followed by reforestation. Another significant objective, she highlights, “is to reinstate the Altavista Shelter with more sustainable conditions from an energy and safety perspective.” She stresses that “we are also dedicated to facilitating parking in the Mirador de La Ruleta area.” Additionally, the councillor indicates, “through an agreement with the La Orotava City Council, we aim to ensure police presence and traffic regulation on Teide.” This protocol involving the Local police is at an advanced stage and includes the deployment of tow trucks to remove vehicles parked in prohibited areas, “a very common occurrence,” Pérez adds. The feasibility of this has been explored with the Civil Guard, and efforts are being made to collaborate with the regional government on the presence of the Canarian Police on Teide.
Misuse. Blanca Pérez refers to “misuse” within the National Park, which encompasses a broad array of issues. For instance, the prevalence of littering, “which we have identified and aim to eradicate or at least minimize through heightened police presence.” The councillor cautions, “Another area of focus is, in collaboration with the regional Executive, to endeavour to secure approval for the most effective Use and Management Master Plan (PRUG) possible.” She summarises, “The ideal PRUG for preservation, but also for regulating permissible activities and prohibiting those that are deemed unsuitable for the park.”
Connoisseur. Pedro Millán, insular director of the Environment and a seasoned authority on the National Park owing to his dual roles as a mountaineer and geographer, reflects, “This year marks the 70th anniversary of its designation, and like any anniversary, it serves as an opportunity to emphasise the significance of this natural space for the people of Tenerife and as a symbol of identity for all Canary Islands.” “Our most renowned and significant protected natural area globally,” asserts Millán, before adding, “Which places a substantial onus on the Cabildo to uphold it in suitable conditions and present it to the millions of visitors it attracts every year.”
Divergent. Pedro Millán clarifies that “the Park in 1954, when it was established in a Canary Islands with a subsistence economy, bears no resemblance to the present-day park in a modern society that relies predominantly on tourism.” He underscores that the perception has transitioned from viewing nature as a source of resources for agriculture or livestock farming – it is worth recalling the seasonal migration of goat herds. This practice diminished subsequent to the declaration, giving way to the trend of vegetation restoration.
Overcrowding. In the 21st century, but conspicuously after the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a substantial surge in the number of visitors to natural spaces, particularly Teide. In Millán’s opinion,”The Teide National Park: A Conservation Challenge on its 70th Anniversary”
The Teide National Park, a site with the most distinctions in the Canary Islands, faces a significant congestion problem. Public administrations emphasize the need to avoid unwanted situations that could impact the fragile yet essential ecosystem. This challenge becomes all the more relevant as the park celebrates its 70th anniversary.
Threats to the park include the impact of climate change, leading to the retreat of high mountain vegetation and an increased risk of major fires due to intense heat waves. The vulnerability of the unique and sensitive environment of Teide and its surroundings to fires is a growing concern.
Environmental awareness, particularly among tourists, is crucial to ensuring appropriate behavior within this valuable and sensitive territory. Increased surveillance and control measures are necessary to address undesirable situations and improve the park’s conservation efforts.
Collaborative efforts between the council, University of La Laguna (ULL), and various groups aim to design a program of activities highlighting the importance of the Teide National Park. These initiatives also seek to promote research and knowledge, while celebrating the park as a focal point of attraction for scientists across Europe. Educational actions, guide training, and recognition of park contributors further contribute to these conservation efforts.
As the park commemorates its 70th anniversary, various activities and events are planned, beginning on May 24, European Parks Day, and continuing throughout 2024.
The Teide National Park has earned numerous distinctions, including its declaration as a National Park in 1954, expansion of the protected area in 1981, and recognition as a World Heritage Site in 2007. Additional accolades include the Council of Europe Diploma for Conservation and the Decoration for Tourist Merit from the Ministry of Commerce and Tourism. These accomplishments highlight the significance and conservation efforts devoted to this extraordinary natural space.
