Ecological transition in a World Heritage City: The case of San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Canary Islands)

A UNESCO World Heritage City, San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Canary Islands), has achieved a 4% to 48% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions between 2009 and 2019 through targeted interventions. This progress, driven by the city's commitment to the EU's Climate and Energy Pact, highlights effective strategies for urban sustainability in fossil fuel-dependent regions. The study analyzed emissions across four sectors—buildings, public lighting, transportation, and agriculture, forestry, and fishing—and demonstrated that a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP) could further reduce emissions by 64% by 2030 if fully implemented. This case offers valuable insights for other oceanic islands aiming to meet ambitious climate targets.

Santamarta, J. C., Cruz‐Pérez, N., Rodríguez‐Martín, J., Beltrán, R. F., de Gracia, M. D. S., & García‐Gil, A. (2022). Ecological transition in a World Heritage City: The case of San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Canary Islands). Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy, 41(6). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ep.13957