Certain dates stand out as important occasions to celebrate a region's values and culture, and on Canary Islands Day, we not only honor the unique qualities of this region but also reaffirm our commitment to its sustainable development. The Canary Islands, with their four national parks, biosphere reserves, and multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are home to many endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. These distinctive features, along with the exceptional climate and stunning landscapes, make the islands a highly attractive destination. Consequently, the tourism industry bears significant responsibility for their preservation. Through our golf course, hotels, restaurants, and community initiatives, Abama Resort has consistently led the way in promoting sustainable tourism, focusing on environmental protection and the advancement of Tenerife.
Since launching our Sustainability Plan, Abama has implemented various strategies to enhance our facilities, support social initiatives, and contribute to meaningful causes. On Canary Islands Day, we want to highlight some of the actions we have taken in the following post.
Abama Blue Ocean: Protecting Marine Life
Between the southwest coast of Tenerife and La Gomera, just off Playa Abama, lies Europe’s most important whale sanctuary. While this area is ideal for marine life, including whales, dolphins, and turtles, it also faces challenges such as heavy maritime traffic and noise pollution. Abama Resort has supported conservation efforts by producing a large-format book featuring 50 images captured by acclaimed underwater photographers. For each book sold, €10 is donated to Pelagic Life Canarias and Asociación Tonina, organizations dedicated to scientific research in this critical marine area, helping to protect biodiversity in the Atlantic Ocean.
Abama Golf: A Course in Environmental Harmony
Abama Golf was the first course in Tenerife to earn the European Union’s EMAS environmental management certification and holds the ISO:14001 quality certification. Our commitment extends beyond mere regulatory compliance; we have initiated projects such as an organic fertilization system using plant waste from the course in a circular process, and irrigation practices based on evapotranspiration techniques. In 2024, we have undertaken a significant transformation of our greens by planting a grass species adapted to the island’s climate, which is more resistent to drier conditions and thereby more water efficient.
Abama Solidaria: Supporting the Local Community
We launched our first Abama Solidaria project four years ago, providing tablets to children in Guía de Isora to facilitate online learning during the pandemic. Since then, we have continued to make targeted donations to families in need and support community initiatives like Ámate Tenerife, which focuses on women with breast cancer and their families, and reconstruction efforts on La Palma following the volcanic eruption. We also collaborated with the Guía de Isora Volunteer Firefighters Association to organize the first Abama Solidaria Paddle Tennis Tournament in 2023. These initiatives have always received strong support from the local community and government.
Abama Hotels: Prioritizing Environmental Sustainability
With the Biosphere Committed certificare awarded to Las Terrazas de Abama Suites, our hotels stand out in Tenerife for their sustainability-focused management. The little paper still used in reception and offices comes from certified forests, and we encourage the use of digital screens and electronic check-in to reduce carbon emissions. Guests will also find other eco-friendly initiatives such as compostable coffee pods, amenities produced by local companies, and a water ionizer to minimize plastic bottle consumption. Abama Hotels is also known for supporting organizations like the Red Cross, the San Juan Association, and the Canary Ornithological Society, and is part of the "El primer viaje" initiative, which helps young shearwater seabirds return to the sea if they become disoriented after hatching.
Locally Sourced Ingredients at Our Restaurants
At our Melvin by Martin Berasategui and Tágara restaurants, located in Las Terrazas de Abama Suites, diners can enjoy gourmet dishes prepared with the island’s seasonal ingredients. These zero-kilometer products have minimal carbon footprints due to their local cultivation and most often are grown without chemical fertilizers, as is the case with fruits and vegetables from La Calabacera farm, one of our trusted kitchen suppliers.
At Abama Resort Tenerife, we believe that building sustainable homes is an integrated approach that combines environmental protection and social development. It is a concept we continue to develop so that each Canary Islands Day serves as a reminder of our commitment to the growth and well-being of this remarkable community.
