A biologist and science communicator, originally from Icod de los Vinos, has found in digital platforms and humor the ideal tools to convey the fascinating biodiversity of the Canary Islands. For this expert, the essence of his work lies in environmental outreach, motivated by an innate enthusiasm for ecosystem functions and the need to share that knowledge with the public.
The communicator compares his work with that of historical figures like Telesforo Bravo, highlighting the differences in methods. While pioneers relied on direct experience and proximity, the digital age offers unprecedented facilities for content creation and dissemination. However, this accessibility also carries risks, such as misinformation or superficiality, especially when outreach is confused with digital influence.
“"The trend of people dedicated to disseminating on social media is gradually becoming like that of an environmental influencer. I believe there are certain frictions that are not necessarily negative, but if your ultimate goal is not to disseminate, but to be an influencer and your theme is the environment, perhaps what you want is simply to stand out, to attract attention, and they talk about nature because in the Canary Islands it is now fashionable."
Scientific outreach on digital platforms is seen as both a trend and a necessity. The Canarian biodiversity, a global hotspot with a high percentage of Spanish endemisms, needs to be communicated to raise awareness about the privilege and responsibility of its conservation. The current state of biodiversity in the Canary Islands is paradoxical: there is more information and protection figures than ever, but they also face challenges such as an unsustainable economic model, bureaucracy, and the need for restrictive measures that, although unpopular, are crucial for preservation.
The expert emphasizes the importance of providing tools and knowledge to the population, rather than imposing, so that each individual can form their own opinion and take an active role in conservation. Despite advances in awareness, there is still ample room for improvement, and it is essential that interest in nature does not remain a superficial trend. The communicator also mentions the challenges of dealing with detractors on social media, including climate change deniers, animal rights activists, and conspiracy theorists.
In addition to his social media activity, the biologist participates in a science outreach podcast and collaborates with a non-profit association, Fénix Canarias. The latter allows him to develop physical and visual projects, such as installing bird feeders with cameras in schools in Tenerife, seeking to sow interest in young people and foster an understanding of the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
