Tenerife’s Sustainable Biodiversity Enhances Tourists’ Well-being

Tenerife Spain (July 9, 2024) – Tenerife, the largest and most inhabited of the Canary Islands, hosts a variety of the world’s most diverse resources due to its ideal weather conditions, altitude and volcanic soil. The island, part of the Macaronesia region, is recognized as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and hosts over 800 endemic species of flora and fauna across 43 protected natural areas which cover nearly half of its surface. With nature-positive tourism on the rise, Tenerife welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in its rich biodiversity. Guests can explore the island’s protected landscapes, savor organic local produce, and enjoy a paradise teeming with preserved natural resources. This approach benefits both the environment and the well-being of all who experience it.

Sustainable Activities

Tenerife is deeply committed to the conservation and welfare of dolphins and cetaceans, setting a standard in sustainable tourism through initiatives like the Sustainability Charter for Whale Watching. Home to 26% of the world’s whale and dolphin species, with 21 species sighted, Tenerife has designated the “Franja Marina Teno-Rasca” as a special area of conservation. With over 60 vessels authorized to operate from 6 ports, Tenerife ensures marine activities are conducted responsibly, including following strict guidelines on vessel operations such as noise reduction, waste management, and respectful wildlife interaction. This enhances whale watching experiences, offering visitors an authentic and educational encounter. Studies show that exposure to nature and wildlife can reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall mental well-being, making Tenerife a prime example of how sustainable tourism benefits both the environment and visitors’ health.

Tenerife’s Charter for the Sustainability of Activities in Nature is a collaborative effort involving tourism companies and aims to create a unique experience for travelers, rooted in excellence and sustainability principles. The Charter outlines 15 commitments developed by Tenerife’s Ministry of Tourism, various departments of the Island Council, and local operators. These include integrating environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural factors into nature tourism, ensuring compliance with protected area regulations, and fostering cooperation among businesses. The initiative aims to enhance Tenerife’s reputation as a responsible destination by offering sustainable and transformative experiences like eco-tours, guided hikes emphasizing conservation, marine excursions with minimal environmental impact, and cultural encounters promoting local heritage.

Tenerife’s commitment to sustainability is also exemplified by its Starlight designation, ensuring exceptional conditions for astronomical observation across various locations, including the Teide National Park and the Cumbres de Tenerife. Nearly 6 million tourists have engaged in stargazing since 2018, making it one of the fastest-growing activities. Supported by the 1988 Law on Protection of Astronomical Quality, this initiative not only enriches biodiversity and protects ecosystems but also enhances visitor well-being by promoting quality sleep, reducing stress, and improving energy efficiency through minimal light pollution practices.

Travelers can visit the Observatory of Izaña and the Museum of Nature and Cosmos, with interpretive panels at Astrovolcanic Spaces. Approximately 15 tour companies offer guided routes with astronomical observation, facilitated by 37 Starlight-certified guides. The presence of the prestigious Canary Islands Astrophysics Institute underscores the island’s commitment to preserving its pristine night skies. In collaboration with NASA, The Heaven and Earth Nature Reserve in the Güímar Valley is home to the certified Starlight Park Camino Barranco de Badajoz and offers exceptional stargazing opportunities and activities such as observing lunar craters and sunspots.

Sustainable Stays

The Circular Tourist Communities (CTC) initiative, led by Tenerife’s hotel employers’ association, Ashotel, and the farmers and livestock farmers association, Asaga, has transformed 570 tons of biowaste from 12 hotels in Tenerife into 200 tons of high-quality compost in the past year alone, diverting waste from the Arico environmental complex. This compost supports organic farming and gardening, revitalizing soils in municipal gardens, hotel grounds, and agricultural estates. Ashotel’s 2022-2030 Sustainability Strategy aims to leverage organic waste from hotels, reduce landfill dependency, and foster soil regeneration for enhanced agricultural output and local sustainability. The collaboration includes hoteliers, the Tenerife Council, Adeje City Council, and agroecological firm Serviagroc, with ongoing plans to expand participation, enrich agrotourism, and integrate advanced waste management technologies. The initiative enhances guest experiences in Tenerife by converting biowaste into high-quality compost for organic farming and gardening. It improves the sustainability and quality of local produce, offering visitors fresher, healthier meals sourced sustainably. This commitment underscores Tenerife’s appeal to environmentally conscious travelers, promoting responsible tourism and enriching the overall visitor experience. 

Tenerife has been recognized for its commitment to tourism sustainability, earning the Biosphere Certification, alongside renewing its status as a Smart Tourist Destination. The island’s private sector is also actively engaged in sustainable practices, with luxurious hotels like Terrazas de Abama and Jardines de Abama receiving the Biosphere Certification, in addition to receiving the World Travel Awards’ Europe’s Leading Luxury All Suite Resort accolade. Additionally, Vincci Tenerife Golf has been awarded the Biosphere Certification, cementing its place among the most prestigious and environmentally conscious accommodation on the island.

For more information and to plan your visit, go to www.webtenerife.com.