The initiative aims to strengthen coastal resilience against climate change through tidal pool-reef systems
San Felipe, Gran Canaria. “It’s a relief to see that they care about our coast. For years, we’ve noticed how the sea level keeps rising, and this project offers us a much-needed solution.” These words from a local resident reflect the sentiment of many San Felipe neighbors who attended the recent community session organized by the LIFE COSTAdapta team to present this innovative solution to rising sea levels.
LIFE COSTAdapta is a pioneering European project that combines science, sustainability, and citizen participation to protect Gran Canaria’s coastline. Its main focus is the implementation of tidal pool-reef systems, an innovative methodology that naturally strengthens coastal structures, reduces tidal impacts, and promotes marine biodiversity.
Led by the Gran Canaria Island Energy Council (CIEGC), the project has a budget of €3,409,864, with 60% co-financed by the European Union’s LIFE Program. Its primary objectives include reducing the vulnerability of coastal areas to rising sea levels, promoting the natural regeneration of affected marine ecosystems, and actively involving local communities in designing and implementing adaptive measures. Over its seven-year duration, the project aims to transform areas like San Felipe into models of climate resilience for other coastal communities.
The tidal pool-reef systems not only aim to protect the coast but also positively impact local biodiversity and provide sustainable solutions with community involvement. As another attendee at the event remarked, “Projects like this benefit both the environment and those of us who live near the sea. It’s a great opportunity for our community.”
LIFE COSTAdapta reinforces Gran Canaria’s commitment to combating climate change, positioning the island as a leader in innovative coastal adaptation solutions.
About LIFE COSTAdapta
The project runs from 2021 to 2028 with a total budget of €3,409,864, 60% co-financed by the LIFE Program of the European Union. It is coordinated by the Gran Canaria Island Energy Council (CIEGC) in collaboration with partners such as Fundación Finnova, the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), the University of Cantabria, INGECID, Raley Coastal Studies, ECOncrete AQUA, and Fundación Canaria Recicla.