The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, via the Environmental Sustainability department, announces that the Santa Cruz Sostenible Foundation will initiate the Nature Classroom and Environmental Interpretation Centre project at Las Mesas Park, funded by Fundación Cepsa. This initiative aims to renovate an unused structure situated in the north-western segment of the peri-urban park, transforming it into a versatile classroom intended for education, research, and fostering environmental awareness.
The mayor and chair of the Santa Cruz Sostenible board, José Manuel Bermúdez, states that “the execution plan will be finalised shortly, enabling construction to commence next year on this multipurpose facility in Las Mesas Park, which will act as a benchmark for sustainability education.”
The councillor for the relevant department and vice-chair of the aforementioned board, Carlos Tarife, emphasises that “this initiative will establish a multifunctional area that enables the community, particularly younger individuals, to re-establish their connection with the natural world, stemming from a participatory process facilitated by the Foundation.”
He further notes that “there are already a multitude of Nature Classrooms across the country where both young people and adults learn to appreciate natural and cultural resources.”
Diego Broock, director of the Santa Cruz Sostenible Foundation, highlights that “the initiative also aims to engage educational institutions and social groups dedicated to environmental education programmes that foster respect for biodiversity, surroundings, and nature. It is a project that will undoubtedly encourage active involvement in environmental stewardship.”
In addition, Belén Machado, the head of the Cepsa Foundation in the Canary Islands, asserts that “biodiversity is a crucial focus, making it essential to support projects that promote environmental awareness and responsibility, as it is vital for everyone to contribute to the change we wish to see in society.”
The technical project is anticipated to be completed by the end of September, with the building’s renovation and subsequent opening expected to occur next year.
The Santa Cruz Sustainable Foundation will oversee the management and upkeep of the facilities, ensuring their ongoing sustainability.
