LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA
INNOVATION
For spatial economy, two cases are discussed as good practices among many possible ones. The first is the micro-area, based on the Las Canteras governance model, where there are multiple uses (including surfing) and thousands of users along its 3 km of beach. The second is the "smart beach" system, concerning the monitoring of beaches (Las Canteras, Alcaravaneras and La Laja), which have video and sensor systems that are integrated into the smart city platform of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria .
MICRO AREAS: A PIONEERING AND SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT MODEL
The Micro Area concept is an innovative management model developed to integrate institutions, collectives, and individuals in the integrated administration of coastal zones. Las Canteras stands out as the first operational Micro Area, demonstrating a pioneering approach to coastal management through the collaboration of numerous institutions and collectives.
In defining the Micro Areas model, students and researchers from six Spanish universities (ULPGC, ULL, University of Alicante, University of Cádiz, University of Barcelona, University of Cantabria) actively participated, along with the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO) and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), as well as several public and private entities.
The goal of this model is not simply to establish agreed-upon regulations on permitted activities at sea, but rather to apply a practical and functional management approach. Las Canteras serves as an example of sustainable development and respect for nature, continuously leading environmental initiatives.
The Las Canteras Micro Ecotourism Area seeks to promote the sustainable use of coastal ecosystem resources, such as ecotourism, which is intrinsically linked to the preservation of marine biodiversity. This model also drives the development of small areas that benefit all its users.
Additionally, this approach aims to balance environmental needs with the socio-economic development of coastal areas, supporting the Natura 2000 network through citizen participation. By fostering the participation of social and business stakeholders, small-scale proposals are generated that contribute to halting environmental degradation, preserving healthy and resilient marine ecosystems, restoring degraded areas, and reducing pressures on biodiversity.
SMART BEACH: TECHNOLOGY AT THE SERVICE OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
Beaches are iconic spaces that attract millions of people each year, both residents and tourists, seeking relaxation and fun. The growing need to ensure the safety and sustainability of these spaces has driven the implementation of innovative technological solutions.
The main beaches of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria have adopted the Smart Beach solution, positioning the city as a leader on the Spanish coast with the most advanced technology for real-time sensor monitoring of its beaches and shorelines. This system allows for quantifying the number of people using the beaches, assessing the environmental, economic, and resource use impact.
Furthermore, the Smart Beach system analyzes weather conditions and ambient noise, and monitors waste containers to determine their fill level. It also monitors water consumption in showers, which can be managed remotely, allowing them to be opened and closed as needed.
These examples reflect an innovative approach to public beach management, integrating sustainability and technology to improve coastal zone administration and promote responsible and efficient resource use.
Currently, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has an integrated city management system through the "Blue Intelligence" platform, where one of its vertical or thematic applications is focused solely on beaches and, as described, is called "Smart Beach". This system is a world pioneer in integrating so many sensors and videometry elements into a single application, allowing the application of big data and artificial intelligence in the public management of these spaces, resulting in improved efficiency and greater effectiveness.
