Teide National Park Plan Approved Amid Environmental, Industry Concerns
The Canary Islands Government has approved a new Master Plan for Teide National Park, the final step before its implementation, despite strong criticism from environmental groups concerned about conservation and the film industry warning of economic devastation.
The Canary Islands Government has approved a new plan for Teide National Park, marking the final step before it officially takes effect. This plan, known as the Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG), has the support of the Teide National Park's Board of Trustees and the National Parks Network Council.
However, the plan has also faced strong criticism from various groups, including environmental organizations and the Canary Islands film and TV industry. Environmentalists believe the new plan, as it's written, risks turning Teide into a "theme park," largely overlooking its conservation needs.
The Canary Islands film and TV sector recently called for the plan to be stopped. They warned that its current rules would "eliminate activity" and severely limit their work, causing a "catastrophic impact" on the entire industry across the islands.
Despite these concerns, the Canary Islands Government states that the support it has received confirms the plan is "technically sound." They add that it "respects the park's environmental values" and is well-suited to "address today's conservation challenges."
This new plan replaces one that was over 23 years old. During that time, the park has experienced many environmental changes and a significant increase in visitors, now welcoming more than 5 million people each year.