Environmental groups and surf clubs have signed a manifesto opposing the new tourism project in the south of Tenerife, called the Underwater Garden. More than twenty associations are demanding a shift in approach and the immediate cancellation of this development, warning of its environmental, social, and economic impact, claiming "It’s a theme park disguised as marine regeneration.”
The signatory groups point out that similar infrastructures in the Canary Islands have led to irreversible damage to landscapes and ecosystems. "Terms such as ‘sustainability’ or ‘regeneration’ are being used to mask the project’s speculative nature," they argue.
Underwater Garden is being promoted as a regenerative and sustainable park with both land-based and marine facilities, covering 17 hectares in the south of the island.
It was declared of insular interest in 2022, with the Cabildo justifying it as a strategic initiative to recover tourism lost during the pandemic. However, three years later, visitor numbers in the Canary Islands have already surpassed pre-pandemic figures. Despite the ongoing debate over tourism growth in the islands, the project remains on track.
"While research into ecological restoration is valuable, the Canary Islands already have a proven model for marine ecosystem recovery: marine reserves. These have been the most effective strategy for regeneration without increasing coastal human intervention," say environmentalists.
They also warn that installing underwater infrastructure in an area with strong currents and complex bathymetry is not only unfeasible but also poses a significant risk to local marine ecosystems. "The biodiversity of the Canary coasts is fragile, and any intervention of this kind could have devastating consequences, especially in areas already under pressure from human activity."
According to their statement, this project would attract thousands of additional tourists and increase boat traffic in the Special Conservation Zone (ZEC), further straining the area. Environmental groups highlight that, just as they successfully halted the Fonsalía port project, they are determined to prevent this large-scale development from moving forward.
Loss of Space for the Local Community
The groups stress that the local community would also be affected by the indirect privatisation of the natural space in Punta Blanca, one of the last refuges on the island where fishermen, surfers, families, and nature lovers can enjoy the environment without the pressures of mass tourism.
"Placing a theme park in this area and restricting access would make it harder for residents to enjoy a vital space for their identity and well-being," they add. They call for planning that prioritises the protection of agricultural land rather than its indiscriminate consumption.
A critical concern raised by the groups is the potential impact on one of the Canary Islands’ most iconic waves. The area's unique natural conditions create this wave, which holds immense social and sporting value. "The installation of underwater infrastructure and a potential pier could alter current dynamics and disrupt wave formation, affecting both local surfers and the coastal ecosystem’s natural balance."
A Questionable Tourism Model
The project was initially declared of interest during the ‘zero tourism’ period of the pandemic, when Tenerife sought new strategies to revive the industry. However, activists argue that the island should not be promoted through artificial parks and attractions.
"This type of project, based on artificiality, steers us away from the true essence of the Canary Islands: their natural value and uniqueness. Instead of fostering sustainable tourism that appreciates and respects the islands’ real environment, it moves us in the opposite direction."
The groups call on the Cabildo to abandon the promotion of tourism initiatives "disguised as sustainability."
