A Gathering for Sustainability: The Role of the Biosphere Reserves in Fuerteventura
On May 12th, starting at 16:00, a significant event will take place at the Palace of Training and Congresses in Fuerteventura, Puerto del Rosario. This gathering, organized by the Department of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Canary Islands Government, aims to strengthen the action capacity of the Canary Island Biosphere Reserves Network, a pivotal cooperative structure that integrates the seven UNESCO-designated territories in the archipelago. Under the leadership of Councillor Mariano Hernández Zapata, this initiative represents a united effort to enhance governance, coordination, and sustainable development across these unique territories.
Understanding Biosphere Reserves
The Canary Island Biosphere Reserves are remarkable spaces where biodiversity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development coexist. This upcoming event is designed as an open forum to engage the public, various organizations, and individuals interested in understanding the essential role these reserves play in addressing common environmental, territorial, cultural, and socioeconomic challenges. Attendees are encouraged to sign up via the provided link, making it easy for everyone to get involved.
Keynote Session and Dialogues
The central segment of the event, themed “The Canary Islands Biosphere Reserves: Knowledge and Cooperation in Facing Common Challenges,” will kick off at 16:00. This session aims to bring together experts, community groups, and the general public to foster discussions about the current challenges faced by the biosphere reserves. The afternoon agenda will include a keynote address on contemporary issues affecting these reserves, followed by three dialogue tables focusing on different aspects: heritage and conservation, society and culture, and territory and economic development.
This format is designed to be a platform for knowledge transfer and public dialogue, emphasizing the reserves’ potential as labs for sustainability, community engagement, and the delicate balance between conservation and development.
Internal Working Session
Before the public conference, an internal working session for the managers of the various Biosphere Reserves will take place at the Insular Youth Center of the Fuerteventura Cabildo. This session will bring together scientific and technical profiles of great relevance, focusing on the importance of networking and the need for improved technical coordination. One topic of discussion will be the Action Plan of the Canary Islands Biosphere Reserves Network, recognized as a key governance tool.
Approved in September 2025, the Action Plan identifies priorities such as strengthening governance, energizing scientific and participatory councils, and enhancing coordination among administrations. It also emphasizes the importance of public outreach, training efforts, and the development of common strategies in areas like environmental education, climate change adaptation, land stewardship, and promoting natural and cultural heritage.
The Importance of Public Involvement
The Department of Ecological Transition and Energy is eager to encourage residents of Fuerteventura, as well as anyone interested in sustainability, heritage conservation, and the cultural landscape of the Canary Islands, to actively participate in this event. It serves as an invaluable opportunity to share knowledge, listen to experiences, and strengthen cooperation in facing shared challenges across the archipelago.
By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, the event aims not only to inform but also to inspire action among all attendees, highlighting the critical need to work collectively towards sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and the community. Each participant, regardless of their background, contributes to the overarching goal of a more sustainable future for the Canary Islands.
