These fires, allegedly caused by cigarette butts, have mainly affected populations of broom and ‘rosalillo’, both endemic species in the heights of Tenerife.
Ban on Smoking in Teide National Park
The Cabildo of Tenerife has implemented a smoking ban across the entirety of Teide National Park as a preventative measure against the risk of wildfires and to protect one of the most valuable natural spaces in the Canary Islands and the whole of Spain.
The resolution, signed by Blanca Pérez, the Councillor for Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, stipulates that smoking is prohibited in open spaces within the National Park. This includes trails, paths, viewpoints, recreation areas, car parks, rest areas, and public-use facilities, except in designated covered buildings where smoking is expressly allowed.
Recent Fires Highlight the Need for Action
Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo of Tenerife, noted that three fires have occurred in protected areas of Tenerife in recent weeks, allegedly sparked by discarded cigarette butts. “These fires have primarily affected populations of broom and ‘rosalillo’, two iconic endemic species found in the island’s highlands. These incidents demonstrate that a simple act of negligence can have serious repercussions on unique and particularly fire-vulnerable ecosystems,” she stated.
Dávila emphasised that “this decision is based on the necessity to reinforce preventative measures in an environment that is particularly sensitive, characterised by high visitor numbers, meteorological conditions that favour the spread of fire, and vegetation that is highly combustible.”
Furthermore, the resolution reminds visitors that smoking is one of the main causes of wildfires in the vicinity of the National Park, whether through the abandonment of cigarette butts, their disposal from vehicles, or improper handling.
Legal Framework and Visitor Responsibility
The measure is adopted in accordance with state and regional legislation regarding forests, the conservation of protected natural areas, and wildfire prevention, as well as the principles of precaution and enhanced protection of natural heritage.
It is also specified that visitors, users, workers, or anyone engaged in authorised activities within the National Park must adhere to the ban for the duration of their stay within this protected natural space.
The Cabildo of Tenerife calls for the cooperation and responsibility of all individuals visiting Teide National Park to help preserve this unique site, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and part of the National Parks Network, ensuring its safeguarding for future generations.
