Canary Islands Environmental Agency Reorganization

Overview

The Canary Islands government announced a reorganization of its environmental agencies. Following a decree approved in late January 2026, two major departments have been renamed to better reflect their roles.

Department Renamings

• The Directorate General of Eco-Transition and Climate Change has become the Directorate General of Environmental Quality.
• The Directorate General of Natural Spaces and Biodiversity is now called the Directorate General of the Natural Environment.

Objectives of the Change

This change aims to:

• Streamline and clarify the government’s approach to environmental management.
• Signal a renewed focus on the quality of the environment and the natural landscape.

Appointments

The new directors for these departments have been appointed:

• Ángel Pablo Montañés Ríos for Environmental Quality
• Miguel Ángel Morcuende Hurtado for the Natural Environment

Broader Context

These shifts are part of the broader efforts by the regional government to:

• Strengthen ecological policies
• Address the growing urgency of climate change

Significance

The announcements come as the government emphasizes the importance of:

• Environmental oversight
• Natural preservation
• Sustainable development for the region.

Residents and observers should note these changes as they may influence upcoming environmental initiatives and policies in the Canary Islands.