Andorra Creates First National Park in Valls de Canillo i Ordino

The Andorran government has introduced a bill to establish the Valls de Canillo i Ordino national natural park, Andorra's first at a national level, increasing protected land to 30.94% of the total territory.

Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Guillem Casal emphasised prioritising quality and environmental value over specific percentage targets, while expressing confidence that the executive could exceed the 30% goal from its electoral programme before the current legislative term ends. He noted that one parish is advancing a protection project that could yield further progress soon.

Casal highlighted potential expansion in Encamp's Pessons glacial cirque, citing the parish council's commitment to preservation. He praised the decision to exclude the area from the ski domain concession, reflecting strong collaboration with local authorities, including outgoing mayor Laura Mas. Encamp, among Andorra's largest parishes, currently safeguards only the Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley.

The minister expressed approval of the Canillo and Ordino initiative's momentum, crediting both parishes for prompt support and an established legal foundation. Designations, he explained, focus on sites with exceptional environmental, ecological, and biodiversity merits, following thorough evaluations of advantages and challenges to ensure targeted protection without overextending resources.