COSTAdapta

Gran Canaria seeks to recover natural pools to protect the coast of San Felipe from climate change

The LIFE COSTAdapta project promotes marine biodiversity, protects homes and local heritage and preserves the sporting uses of the coast, with innovative measures backed by detailed scientific analyses.

The sea level on the Canary coasts has risen by about 4 mm per year in the last three decades and could rise by up to 30 cm by 2100, according to scientific estimates. Faced with this challenge, the European project LIFE COSTAdapta, led by the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, proposes sustainable solutions for the protection of the coastline in San Felipe.

With a total budget of €3,409,864, 60% co-financed by the European Union’s LIFE Programme, the project involves seven entities: University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), University of Cantabria (UNICAN), INTEC-GID, EWA-BEL, ECOncrete Tech, Fundación Canaria Recicla and Fundación Finnova. Multidisciplinary teams from these institutions, together with social agents, work on the development of adaptive proposals.

The actions include the recovery of puddles and traditional natural pools in the Canary Islands. Innovative materials are used to increase marine biodiversity and ensure the protection of homes and local heritage, respecting the sporting uses of the area. An exhaustive study of San Felipe has made it possible to identify key aspects for decision-making, based on scientific data and detailed analyses.

The cultural and natural heritage of San Felipe stands out for elements such as the old school, the church of San Felipe and the archaeological sites, which require preservation measures in the face of climatic risks. Marine biodiversity is also prioritized with the recovery of algae, molluscs and crustaceans through innovative materials, promoting traditional shellfishing.

The coastline, known for emblematic waves such as the Circo wave and Vagabundos beach, faces high vulnerability. The analysis of coastal dynamics identifies two areas with significant retreat of the coastline. Marine and climate dynamics models assess the impact of waves in these areas and guide the design of effective solutions.

With this scientific basis, LIFE COSTAdapta is moving towards the implementation of adaptive measures that protect homes and environments without altering the natural balance. San Felipe is positioned as an international benchmark in adaptation to climate change, offering a replicable model for other islands of the archipelago and Macaronesian regions.

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