Expats in Spain: New Initiative Combines Education and Environmental Conservation in the Canaries

In a significant move to enhance both educational opportunities and environmental conservation, the Consejería de Transición Ecológica y Energía of the Government of Canarias, led by Mariano H. Zapata, has partnered with the Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) to launch a comprehensive program of practical training in the national parks of the Canary Islands.

A Four-Year Commitment to Conservation and Education

This initiative, set to run for four years, will enable students to engage in both curricular and extracurricular practices within the four national parks of the archipelago. This collaborative effort aims to provide students with hands-on experience in various disciplines related to environmental conservation and biodiversity.

Locations and Scope

The national parks involved in this program include some of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas in the Canary Islands. Students will have the opportunity to work in these unique environments, gaining practical skills in conservation, research, and environmental management. The program is designed to be multidisciplinary, covering a wide range of topics from ecology and biology to environmental policy and sustainable development.

Educational and Community Impact

This partnership not only enhances the educational experience for students but also contributes to the broader goal of conserving the Canary Islands' rich biodiversity. The ULPGC, with its strong focus on environmental sciences, will play a crucial role in mentoring and guiding students through these practical training sessions.

Additional Conservation Efforts

In addition to this educational initiative, the Consejería de Transición Ecológica y Energía has been involved in other significant conservation projects. For instance, in Lanzarote, the government has established seed-producing gardens for native species, such as the guaidil (Convolvulus floridus), which has seen a dramatic increase in seed production from just 153 seeds in 2021 to over 10,000 in 2024. These efforts highlight the government's commitment to preserving the unique flora of the Canary Islands, many of which are facing severe threats due to climate change and habitat degradation[1].

Community Engagement and Awareness

The initiative also includes a component of community engagement, where these training programs and conservation projects are made accessible and visible to the local population. By situating some of these projects in easily accessible areas, the government aims to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the need for its protection. This approach is particularly significant in the Canary Islands, where many endemic species are found in remote and inaccessible locations, making public awareness and education crucial for their conservation[1].

This collaborative project between the Consejería de Transición Ecológica y Energía and the ULPGC marks a significant step forward in integrating education, community engagement, and environmental conservation in the Canary Islands, setting a positive precedent for sustainable development and biodiversity protection in the region.