Andorra establishes first national park in Canillo and Ordino

The Government of Andorra has approved a bill to establish the country’s first national park, located in the valleys of Canillo and Ordino. This initiative covers 8,834 hectares and brings the total protected territory of the country to 30.94%, surpassing the international goal of conserving 30% of land surface by 2030.

Minister of Environment, Agriculture, and Livestock, Guillem Casal, described the project as a “historic milestone.” The proposed law introduces a protection model based on specific zoning, including moderate use, restricted use, reserve zones, and special use zones. The framework aims to preserve traditional activities such as extensive livestock farming, agriculture, hunting, and fishing, while prohibiting new infrastructure that could irreversibly alter the natural environment.

The project is the result of collaboration between the central government and the local administrations of Canillo and Ordino. It also establishes a shared governance model between the Principality and the local councils.