A local plot measuring 1,200 square metres situated in La Marzagana, within La Perdoma, will be designated for the Edible Park initiative, which aims to combat climate change at the community level while also serving a social purpose. The La Orotava Council has been actively progressing on the implementation of this project since last November.
Under the Training and Employment programme, led by Deysi Ramos, and supported by a grant from the Canarian Employment Service, a total of 18 unemployed individuals from the area tied to the agricultural industry were hired for three months to assist with land preparation, spatial layout and planting. This group consists of 15 agricultural workers, two supervisors, and an agronomist. Over 85,600 euros are allocated to this venture, with 73,800 euros provided by the regional government and the remainder by the local council.
Following the organisation of the area, efforts will focus on planting various fruit trees, including pear, apple, banana, orange, guava, and coffee trees, along with seeds for lettuce, coriander, onion, parsley, oats, barley, and rocket, among others. Additionally, vegetable plants like spinach, courgettes, leeks, broccoli, basil, potatoes, and aubergines will also be cultivated. The initiative will feature aromatic and medicinal plants such as rosemary, thyme, lemon balm, lavender, and lime blossom, etc.
The mayor, Francisco Linares, appreciates this initiative for its commitment to sustainability and the environment. It serves as a social and educational resource, raising awareness of the significance of the primary sector and promoting locally sourced products. This urban productive park will act as a platform to educate on the necessity of sustainable local development and provide a public environmental education service, promoting responsible behaviours towards the environment.
Deysi Ramos explains that the project aims to support measures that alleviate climate change effects by establishing a site rich in plant diversity. Parks of this nature afford environmental and sustainable advantages, helping to mitigate the greenhouse effect, cleanse air and water, enhance soil quality, and boost biodiversity. They also facilitate the production of healthy food. The output from this municipal plot will be donated to the local Food Bank for distribution among families with limited resources.
This area will also transform into a natural classroom where education on ecosystem services, the benefits of plants, and the significance of healthy food production can take place. Once fully operational, it will be available for visits from schools and various community groups, featuring talks, workshops, and hands-on activities aimed at fostering awareness about the importance of addressing climate change, as well as promoting the consumption of local agrochemical-free foods.
Ramos further mentions that following the conclusion of this project at the end of January, maintenance will persist under the social employment plan. Meanwhile, the talks and visits will be conducted by personnel from the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) programme, which will be implemented in collaboration with the Tenerife Council.
