This adherence represents a significant step in the protection of natural heritage and aligns with the municipality's efforts to improve the energy efficiency of its public lighting. The La Palma Declaration is a charter of rights supported by prestigious organizations such as UNESCO, the International Astronomical Union, UN Tourism, and the Fundación Starlight.
Fonollosa's initiative complements previous projects, such as the initial approval of the Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Improvement Project in March 2023 and the Updated Strategic Plan for Comprehensive Public Lighting Reform, approved in June 2025. According to the Castelltallat Astronomical Observatory, these measures have already had a positive impact on residents' quality of life, energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and decreased light pollution.
Fonollosa's action follows the lead of the Sant Mateu de Bages City Council, which in May 2025 already promoted a similar adherence, crucial for the accreditation of the Castelltallat Astronomical Observatory as a Starlight Stellar Park, renewed earlier this year.
These steps in the protection and enhancement of a quality night sky strengthen the candidacy for the recognition of the Serra de Castelltallat as a Starlight Tourist Destination.
This distinction, granted by the Fundación Starlight, is awarded to territories that combine a night sky free of light pollution, a consolidated astronomical outreach activity, and a network of tourist establishments oriented towards astrotourism. Obtaining this seal is a strategic objective for the Serra de Castelltallat Astrotourism Association, which brings together some fifty local establishments.
The candidacy for the Starlight Tourist Destination is led by the Sant Mateu de Bages City Council and supported by the Bages Regional Council. In addition to Fonollosa, the municipalities of Aguilar de Segarra, Rajadell, and Pinós are expected to join, consolidating the region as a benchmark in star tourism.
