Environmental groups challenge Teide National Park management
Environmental organizations representing Teide National Park are preparing to ask the Council of Europe in Strasbourg to revoke the park’s European Diploma. They accuse Tenerife’s local government, led by President Rosa Dávila (Canary Coalition) with PP support, of poor conservation management. According to these groups, the administration prioritizes treating the park as a tourist attraction over preserving its natural heritage, while failing to meet the educational standards expected of protected areas.
Television filming sparks controversy
The conservationists specifically reference the filming of Canary Islands public television (RTVC) program “La Conquista del Fuego” in the Minas de San José landscape. Using transparency laws, they’ve formally requested documentation showing all natural locations used for filming, including whether any occurred within protected areas or coastal public domains, along with copies of the relevant permits.
History of controversial proposals
The groups claim Tenerife’s local government has “long been the main obstacle to preserving Teide National Park’s integrity.” They cite several examples: former mayor and Canary Islands Tourism Minister Miguel Zerolo (Canary Coalition) proposed concerts that would draw large crowds; former Cabildo President Adán Martín floated plans for a luxury hotel; and current Environment Councilor Wladimiro Rodríguez Brito considered building “a major shopping center” in El Portillo area.
Ongoing conservation conflicts
Despite the park’s management plan calling for eradication of introduced mouflon sheep due to their damage to native flora, one official reportedly suggested importing new specimens to address inbreeding instead. Currently, President Dávila continues promoting and funding prohibited sporting events like mountain races and cycling competitions within park boundaries, while dismissing conservation organizations’ concerns. Critics argue her administration talks about protecting Tenerife’s most iconic natural space while acting contrary to conservation principles.
