This project, initially focused on the Aridane Valley, aims to expand across the entire island of La Palma. Its methodology is based on cooperation between public administrations, organizations, and the population to find joint solutions to demographic issues.
“"Addressing the demographic challenge of the Aridane Valley requires new ways of working. That is why this initiative is so important, in which collaboration and citizen involvement are key."
The president of the Cabildo, Sergio Rodríguez, emphasizes the need for innovative approaches and active resident participation. According to Rodríguez, the project facilitates the creation of responses based on the knowledge and experience of those who live in the territory.
“"The goal is for the response to the demographic challenge to be community-based, involving the different actors in the territory in defining solutions. It is not about institutions leading this process, but about citizens actively participating in building responses."
Vicente Zapata, the project director, highlights that the goal is a community response, where citizens are key players in formulating solutions. The initiative includes a social hearing in the Aridane Valley to gather input from the population and socioeconomic agents, which will allow for the design of strategies tailored to the real needs of the area.
The Aridane Valley faces specific demographic challenges, such as an aging population, loss of human capital, and imbalances in the territorial distribution of its inhabitants. Project Aridane is a collaboration between the Cabildo de La Palma, the University of La Laguna, the three municipalities of the Aridane Valley, the La Caixa Foundation, and the Biosphere Reserve, forming an institutional and social alliance to address this reality.
