Geological and Coastal Reserves of Tenerife

During a week-long research trip in Tenerife, Elliot Connor collaborated with Jaime Coello Bravo from Fundación Telesforo Bravo Juan Coello to investigate the threats to the island’s coastal reserves and geological heritage sites. Their research focused on documenting the regions’ rich history, spanning from volcanic origins and colonisation to modern-day pressures from commodification. Over the course of their investigation, they visited nearly two dozen sites on the southern side of the island, with particular focus on the Montana Roja and Mount Teide reserves. A key aspect of their work was examining how tourism and development are threatening Tenerife’s natural heritage. Jaime Coello Bravo also shared a multigenerational perspective on the environmental changes the island has undergone, drawing on his family’s long history of efforts to protect its natural resources. Elliot Connor is a 21-year-old naturalist, journalist, and filmmaker who specializes in environmental storytelling. He is currently a researcher for the BBC’s *Blue Planet III*. Five years ago, he founded Human Nature Projects, a charity that supports community-led conservation efforts across 110 countries. Elliot later transitioned into science communication, becoming the author of *Human Nature: How to be a Better Animal*, delivering a TEDx talk in Sydney, and hosting multiple podcasts. He has also worked in journalism, screenwriting, and filmmaking. His focus is on producing powerful environmental films, both in front of and behind the camera.