Mariano H. Zapata, Canarian Minister of Ecological Transition visited Adeje’s Central Park earlier today – this is a public space of more than 32,000 square meters, which, once completed, will house some 25,000 species of fruit trees, palm trees, ornamental, aromatic, culinary and medicinal plants.
During his visit, the Minister stressed the importance of urban greening, stating that "urban forests and these carbon sinks are essential in helping to conserve natural and animal species in the environment". Zapata pointed out that this investment, of more than €370,000 "is an essential project model for the future" because these kinds of green spaces "are essential in Canarian urban zones as tools for climate adaptation to combat problems such as the foreseeable and increasingly common heat waves".
The minister also stressed that other "Canary Island municipalities can look to Adeje and this project as an example to follow, to try to replicate this experience in other areas of the islands and help the environment.”
Adeje mayor José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga said "we would be delighted to share the positive impact of this project in Adeje with the rest of the islands. After four years of hard work we have managed to produce 150 tonnes of fruit, vegetables and greens, which have gone for distribution to our Food Bank, for those who need it most. We have also generated employment opportunities for people in Adeje - between 120 and 130 people have taken part in this project every year, so over the 4 years nearly 500 Adeje residents have played a hands-on part in the evolution of this park and, in addition, have been given job opportunities. The park is theirs and together we have achieved two things: assisting some of our people enter the labour market and creating a park that belongs to the people of Adeje the fruit of their work".
He also explained that this is a green area, "what today is called a carbon sink, and that helps us in our work towards the reduction of the levels of pollution", adding that "despite these achievements, our project is in its early stages and we will continue to move forward with the commitment to make Adeje a more sustainable place".
In 2021, the Ministry of Ecological Transition granted Adeje council a grant of €374,956, for the project, which has a total estimated cost of €412,452.
The Central Park has a surface area of 32,000 square meters, of which more than 60% has already been planted and which, once completed, will house some 25,000 species of fruit trees, palm trees, ornamental, aromatic, culinary and medicinal plants. The park will also have a large lagoon that will house fish, birds and include a small waterfall. In addition, this forest will also have a space dedicated to promoting knowledge of local agriculture and handicrafts, as well as a nature classroom that will be available for visitors.
