The Canary Islands is at a crucial moment marked by the interaction between science, sustainability and the social challenges it faces. The islands, known for biodiversity, cultural wealth and unique landscapes, are in turn the scene of technological innovations, such as the deployment of satellites for their protection, and of emerging problems linked to the increased tourist pressure, climate change and the arrival of invasive species.
While Canarian institutions implement cutting-edge projects, the population expresses the need for balanced development to ensure local well-being and identity, preserving a heritage that goes beyond the natural environment and encompasses everything from the gastronomy to the dynamism of young communities.
The Canary Islands from space: a technological commitment to management and protection
The Tenerife Council and the Astrophysical Institute of the Canary Islands (IAC) have recently presented a pioneering project: the creation of the Canary Islands Constellation, a network of small satellites whose objective will be to observe the islands of Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro on a daily basis. This system is expected to be operational by the end of 2028 and will be able to capture images in different spectra—shortwave infrared, visible and thermal—enabling advanced surveillance of the archipelago.
The estimated investment exceeds 20 millones de euros and seeks to strengthen anticipation of risks arising from climate change, fires or spills, as well as facilitating better management of natural resources and emergencies. Satellite technology, which involves the integration of advanced cameras such as the DRAGO-3 developed by the IAC, represents a qualitative leap in resolution and precision, applying astrophysical expertise to areas such as agriculture and environmental protection.
This project not only has a scientific and safety approach, but also seeks to promote Canarian talent and position the islands as leaders in space technology. The heads of the IAC and the Island Council emphasize that close collaboration is being consolidated between the various public entities, the research community, and the business sector, in line with the international trend of investing in the so-called new space.
During the presentation, the astronaut and molecular biologist participated Sara García, who highlighted the importance of these projects in connecting cutting-edge research with the real needs of society. Furthermore, the satellite constellation will contribute to the Intelligent Emergency Management System of the Cabildo, integrating satellite information and real-time data analysis to respond more effectively to any environmental or social incident in the archipelago.
Expansion of Asian algae: a new threat to island biodiversity
The Canary Islands face new ecological challenges due to the proliferation of invasive Asian algae on its coasts. According to marine experts, the Rugulopteryx okamurae, native to Southeast Asia, has managed to gain a foothold in the archipelago thanks to maritime traffic and global warming. This species, which is not dangerous to human health but does have a direct impact on local biodiversity, was removed in quantities exceeding 9.000 kilos only in the last week by the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria City Council.
The consequences of the invasion affect fishing, tourism, and the Canary Islands economy. The accelerated growth and resistance of these algae make it difficult to control: They form dense layers on the seabed, displace native species and can cause economic problems in the fishing sector. scientists warn If no action is taken, the invasion could spread to all the islands within a few years. Small-scale experiments with species that can feed on algae or innovative solutions are needed to prevent a major ecological disaster.
Gastronomy and identity: the archipelago's cheese as a living heritage
At the heart of Canarian culture, the artisan cheese It symbolizes one of the archipelago's most recognized and valued products. Cheese production, present on all the islands, follows a model rooted in tradition and is a driving force of employment and social cohesion. Programs such as From Country and Sea have recently highlighted the work of young promises and cooperation between associations, promoting the continuity of this hallmark.
The Canary Islands have the largest per capita cheese consumption within the European Union, with an average of about 12 kilos per person per year, reflecting the deep-rootedness of this food in the island diet. In addition, the archipelago has three Protected Designations of Origin (PDO): Majorero Cheese (Fuerteventura), Gran Canaria Cheese (which includes Flor, Media Flor and Guía cheeses) and Palmero Cheese (La Palma). The excellence of the raw materials and the skill of master cheesemakers, who have often won awards at international events such as the World Cheese Awards, consolidate the reputation of the product.
Climate, tourism and daily life: perception from within
Daily life in the archipelago is influenced by multiple factors, from weather conditions to the impact of tourism on the economy and social well-being. Reports from the State Meteorological Agency confirm this. slight rises in temperature and the presence of strong winds on several islands, affecting both economic activities and the tourist experience in natural environments.
The idyllic image that the Canary Islands present to the outside world contrasts with the reality experienced by many residents. Young people and locals are expressing their concern about the situation through social media and the media. rising rental prices, the difficulty finding employment and the demographic pressure derived from tourism and new residents. This impacts the housing accessibility, infrastructure and quality of life, generating saturation in both natural spaces and transportation hubs.
Likewise, dissatisfaction with the educational offerings, the perception of institutional neglect, and the feeling of dislocation in the face of tourism growth are generating concern among the population. The debate on how to reconcile tourism development, which is an economic driver, with sustainability and the preservation of the island's identity is at the heart of the social dialogue.
The challenge lies in striking a balance between innovation, environmental protection, and social well-being. Advanced initiatives, such as satellite observation, must be accompanied by policies that address residents' demands and protect both the archipelago's natural environment and cultural heritage.