Josep Berga, mayor of Olot; Sergio Javier Rodríguez, president of the Cabildo Insular de La Palma; Santi Reixach, president of the Garrotxa Regional Council; Gemma Canalias, president of the Turisme Garrotxa association and Carlos Closa, representative of the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), have signed a territorial collaboration agreement between La Palma and La Garrotxa. The signing of this agreement generates a step forward in the cooperation between the two territories of volcanic origin, in order to promote economic, social and cultural development and improve the quality of life of both communities. The document focuses on four areas of action:

Research and scientific development: collaboration with universities and research centres to deepen the sustainable management of volcanic environments.

European projects: joint participation in calls for European funding that facilitate cooperation between territories.

Digitalization and digital transformation: exchange of experiences for territorial planning through data and digital technologies.

Knowledge exchange: development of education, employment, cultural heritage and the environment projects.

The signed agreement highlights the commitment of all entities to promote sustainable development and territorial competitiveness through cooperation and joint work. Therefore, a clause of the agreement is the creation of the Monitoring Committee, formed by representatives of each signatory entity, which will be responsible for supervising and guiding the development of the planned initiatives, as well as resolving any incident during the collaboration process.

This agreement emphasizes the exchange of good practices in the management of volcanic territories, with a specific focus on sustainability and the preservation of natural heritage. La Garrotxa and La Palma share unique geographical characteristics, which makes this agreement an opportunity to promote innovative initiatives that help to face environmental challenges and promote a development model that respects their ecosystems.

In the first joint actions, the creation of different educational projects that raise awareness among local communities about the importance of conserving volcanic and natural heritage is foreseen. Through workshops, conferences and other training activities, the aim is to promote a deep knowledge of these environments by citizens, assessing the particularities of volcanic landscapes and promoting a responsible and sustainable use of resources.

In the long term, the agreement will allow both territories to increase their capacities in key areas such as digitalisation, the green economy and technological innovation. This strategic alliance, therefore, represents a commitment to growth and sustainability, with a positive impact on both the present and the future of La Palma and La Garrotxa.