Investment in the Canary Islands Surpasses €297 Million, Boosting Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
La inversión en el conjunto de las Islas Canarias alcanza más de 297 millones de euros, entre Planes de Sostenibilidad Turística, ayudas a municipios y pequeñas y medianas empresas.
The Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sánchez, recently visited Fuerteventura to assess the progress of sustainable tourism projects on the island. During her visit, she highlighted that these initiatives are backed by the Next Generation EU funds and the Spanish Government’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan, amounting to €18.7 million specifically allocated for Fuerteventura.
Transforming Tourism Through Sustainability
Sánchez emphasized that these investments are not solely aimed at enhancing tourist experiences but also focus on securing the future of local destinations and businesses. “We strive for a more sustainable tourism model that ensures quality jobs and prosperity while maintaining the well-being of the residents of Fuerteventura,” she stated. The comprehensive approach showcases how adopting a sustainable tourism framework can benefit not just visitors but the local community as well.
Key Projects Underway
During her visit to the Insular Cabildo headquarters, Sánchez met with President Lola García and Tourism Councillor Marlene Figueroa, among other officials. She later inspected two pivotal projects: the rehabilitation of the protected landscape of Vallebrón in Puerto del Rosario, which has seen an investment of over €667,000, and the refurbishment of the Casa del Coronel market in La Oliva, completed with an investment of €257,582.
Both endeavors are part of the Sustainable Tourism Plans (PSTD) being executed under the banner of “Fuerte por Naturaleza,” with a total investment of €9.1 million. There are also two other PSTD projects in La Oliva and Pájara worth €6 million and €2 million, respectively. These initiatives aim not only to improve existing infrastructures but also to promote a broader vision of sustainable development in tourism.
Unprecedented Public Investment
Sánchez highlighted that this initiative represents the largest public investment in tourism ever made in Spain, a statement that underscores the significant economic commitment toward transforming the tourism sector in Fuerteventura. The projects funded reflect a blend of preservation, innovation, and community-centered approaches that prioritize environmental and social sustainability.
Governance and Strategic Implementation
Beyond the mentioned PSTD projects, Fuerteventura has also received various grants for municipalities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aimed at digitalization, diversifying the tourism offer, and improving energy efficiency. The total investment across the Canary Islands has surpassed €297 million, demonstrating the extensive financial backing available for fostering sustainable tourism.
Sánchez further noted the collaborative governance model utilized to effectively leverage the Next Generation funds. “From both the Government of Spain and the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, we have consistently supported local and regional administrations to capitalize on this unique opportunity,” she said, recognizing the effectiveness of a multi-level governance approach among different authorities.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing efforts in the Canary Islands serve as a compelling example of how strategic investment in sustainable tourism can lead to a more resilient and adaptive economy. The ambitious plans not only aim to attract tourists but also offer long-term benefits to local communities, securing the preservation of the islands’ rich natural and cultural heritage while creating a more sustainable future.
