Gran Canaria's Maspalomas Dunes: A Stunning Ecological Comeback

Maspalomas Dunes Restoration: A Success Story in Gran Canaria Gran Canaria, Spain – The Maspalomas Dunes, a vital ecosystem in southern Gran Canaria, has seen remarkable recovery thanks to a comprehensive restoration project. The initiative, spearheaded by the island council, focused on protecting the dunes from erosion and the spread of invasive species. One key element of the project has been the increase in the population of Balancones, a stabilizing plant species. "In 1971, there were only 383 Balancones," explains a council official in the video. "Today, in 2024, that number has risen to over 1198, a 75% increase in the last 60 years." This increase is directly attributed to the restoration efforts. The project also involved the use of sand traps to control erosion, protecting 14,000 cubic meters of sand and recovering 85% of the degraded area. Furthermore, the council has implemented measures to combat invasive species, preserving more than 31,000 square meters of the ecosystem. A local ecologist interviewed in the video emphasized the importance of nature-based solutions. "These methods have not only stabilized the dunes but also created a haven for birds and other wildlife." The project serves as a model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges.