Forests across the globe have faced challenges from fire and drought, and the beautiful laurel trees of the Canary Islands are part of this story of resilience.

In recent years, the Canaries have experienced significant desertification, impacting the rich forests that once thrived. Environmentalist Gustavo Viera shared insights on this issue, noting the loss of forested areas due to agricultural expansion. He also highlighted the profound effects of climate change, which led to destructive fires in 2007 and 2009 that affected regions typically nourished by moisture.

Viera, serving as the technical director of Life Nieblas—a remarkable public initiative focused on innovative water collection—has led efforts in a fascinating technique known as "cloud-milking." This sustainable method harnesses the power of nature by utilizing a netting of metal pins to gather condensation from low-hanging fog, requiring no energy to operate.

"Our goal was to address the delicate nature of the netting while ensuring we protect the environment," Viera explained.

The team developed a system inspired by pine needles, which excel at capturing water while allowing air to flow freely. This approach is not only effective but also easily transportable and adaptable to various locations in need.

As fog drifts through the metal fronds, water droplets collect and gently fall into containers below. The dedicated workers of Life Nieblas then use this precious water to nourish young saplings, playing a vital role in reforesting the area.

“The Canaries are the ideal setting for developing these techniques,” remarked Vicenç Carabassa, the project’s lead scientist. He also pointed out that other regions, such as Chile and Morocco, boast similar conditions and a rich history of fog water capture.

As Carabassa thoughtfully noted, “We’re living with drought throughout the Mediterranean and also in the Canaries. Every drop of water counts.”

This inspiring initiative demonstrates how communities can come together to foster renewal and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. The work being done in the Canary Islands serves as a beacon of hope, showcasing the possibilities of innovative solutions and collaboration for a brighter future.