Escaldes-Engordany Backs Andorra's UNESCO Biosphere Bid After Core Zone Adjustment

Escaldes-Engordany's council approved its support for Andorra's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve candidacy on Monday, following government adjustments that excluded the parish's unique Madriu valley administration area from the highest-protection core zone.

Síndica Rosa Gili confirmed the decision during the session, noting that Prime Minister Xavier Espot contacted her in September to discuss the national bid and seek the Comú's involvement. She reiterated no opposition to Andorra becoming the first such country but raised concerns over governance overlaps and unclear competencies, particularly with the Madriu-Perafita-Claror valley's existing UNESCO World Heritage status and management plan.

After reviewing the dossier, the council requested changes to remove Escaldes-Engordany's sole-administration section from the core zone, arguing its current protections sufficed. Officials agreed, leaving only bipartite and tripartite valley areas in that category. Gili described the area as "very high" with no obstacles to the adjustment.

She stressed the importance of avoiding duplicate protections and governance bodies, praising the collaborative approach. "If we work from dialogue and institutional loyalty, they will always find us there," Gili said, contrasting it with prior limited consultations.

Minority councillors also backed the move, calling it a step toward sustainable development. Environment Minister Guillem Casal had announced the candidacy submission last Wednesday.

The proposal retains three zones: core areas with maximum safeguards, buffer zones for transition, and lighter transition zones including urban areas. With Escaldes-Engordany's endorsement and required letter now in place, the bid moves closer to full parish backing.