Tree removal controversies spark protests in Spain and Ecuador

In Spain, several municipalities have faced criticism over the cutting of ancient araucaria trees. In Castilleja de la Cuesta, a centennial araucaria was felled to make way for a new municipal building and underground parking despite warnings that alternatives existed, prompting environmental groups such as ADTA Ecologistas en Acción Aljarafe to label the act an "arboricide" and demand legal compliance. In La Orotava on Tenerife, officials plan to fell two araucarias near schools and health centres after a technical study deemed them a safety risk.

In Ecuador's Entre Ríos neighbourhood of Samborondón, four trees were cut without the required permits, sparking outrage among residents. A community‑led planting effort with the Fundación La Iguana was blocked by the local committee, which cited an ongoing technical study and a municipal reforestation plan. The foundation condemned the board’s response as hypocritical, highlighting a double standard after the illegal felling.

Both cases illustrate growing tensions between urban development, public safety concerns and the preservation of historic or native trees, with local activists demanding greater protection and transparency.