Tazacorte inaugurates BECOMAR marine biodiversity observatory

The Marine Biodiversity and Blue Economy Observatory (BECOMAR) Rogelio Herrera has been inaugurated in the Port of Tazacorte, La Palma. Coordinated by the Canary Islands Oceanic Platform (PLOCAN), the scientific facility is housed in a former nursery school and will serve as a permanent base for monitoring the coastline and the ecosystems that emerged following the Tajogaite volcanic eruption.

The project involved a joint investment exceeding 1.7 million euros. Funding included 1.4 million euros from the State Secretariat for the Environment via the Canary Islands Government's Ministry of Ecological Transition, and 250,000 euros from the regional Ministry of Science. The Tazacorte City Council provided the building for the facility.

The observatory features laboratories, technical and logistical areas, researcher spaces, diving equipment zones, and facilities for specialized training and collaboration with marine-related companies. Officials stated the center aims to consolidate La Palma as a reference for sustainability and the blue economy while fostering innovation in biotechnology and marine research.