A recent report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) highlights ongoing concerns for several UNESCO World Heritage sites in Spain, particularly the natural areas of Garajonay, Doñana, and Ibiza. While the Teide National Park maintains a “good” status, the other sites are categorized under “significant concern,” indicating that their inherent values are under threat and require further conservation measures.
The evaluation, presented at the World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, assessed the conditions of 271 natural heritage sites worldwide. Of these, 40 are recognized as mixed heritage sites, combining both natural and cultural significance. In Spain, the natural heritage sites include Garajonay, Doñana, and Teide, while the mixed heritage sites encompass Pirineos-Monte Perdido, shared with France, and Ibiza.
According to the IUCN”s “World Heritage Outlook 4” report, Teide National Park is one of 46 areas listed in good condition, although it still faces various threats. Continuous vigilance is needed to ensure effective management and preservation. The Pirineos-Monte Perdido site is currently deemed to be in good condition with certain concerns, as its favorable status can only be sustained with additional conservation efforts.
Among the 88 sites identified as being “under significant concern,” Garajonay National Park has raised alarms due to the impacts of climate change. The report notes that the park”s exceptional laurel forest remnants are increasingly suffering from prolonged droughts and habitat changes.
The report also indicates that 17 locations worldwide are in critical condition, primarily found in Africa. Notable sites on this list include the Tenere Reserve in Niger, the Everglades in the United States, and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Climate change emerges as the primary threat to these natural sites, affecting 43% of them. This is followed by invasive species, which endanger 30% of the sites, and recreational activities that pose risks to 22% of sites. Furthermore, the report warns of a significant rise in risks associated with wildlife and plant diseases, with 9% of these natural sites facing high or very high threats from pathogens, a 7% increase since 2020.
The interconnected nature of these threats amplifies their effects. Changes in temperature and precipitation can facilitate the spread of invasive species and alter pathogen conditions, as noted by the IUCN. Unsustainable tourism also contributes to this spread.
While these risks are global, regional differences are notable. In Africa, hunting is a significant threat to natural World Heritage sites, while in Asia, climate change poses the greatest danger. In the Arab states, water pollution is a primary concern, and in South America, recreational activities endanger these areas.
As Grethel Aguilar, Director General of the IUCN, stated, “Protecting World Heritage is not only about safeguarding iconic places but also about preserving the very foundations of life, culture, and identity for people worldwide.” She emphasized the need for unified efforts towards committed action on the ground and increased investment to ensure these irreplaceable treasures endure for nature, humanity, and future generations.
