The center, named 'Guadarrama, Río de Arena', has been operational since September in the historic building of Las Antiguas Escuelas. This initiative strengthens the regional environmental education network, providing a diverse program of free activities for both schoolchildren and the general public.

The primary role of these centers is strategic: to bring the people of Madrid closer to understanding and conserving the natural environment, especially in areas near large cities where the demand for nature-related leisure activities is growing. The new facility has a direct connection to the Guadarrama River Middle Course Regional Park, which spans nearly 50 kilometers through various municipalities in western Madrid.

This project aims to promote the natural and cultural heritage of the park, encourage responsible environmental habits, and disseminate initiatives such as the Green Arch (ARCO Verde). It also seeks to strengthen the relationship between the population and their surroundings to foster their involvement in conservation efforts.

With this opening, the region's network of environmental education centers expands to nine, including others such as the Arboreto Luis Ceballos in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, El Águila in Chapinería, El Campillo in Rivas Vaciamadrid, Caserío de Henares in San Fernando de Henares, Valle del Lozoya in Garganta de los Montes, Hayedo de Montejo in Montejo de la Sierra, and Polvoranca and Bosque Sur, both in Leganés.

Additionally, the network is complemented by four visitor service points located on the Madrid side of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park: La Pedriza, Valle de la Fuenfría, Valle del Paular, and Peñalara. The annual program of these centers includes free activities, with weekday proposals specifically aimed at students from Primary, Secondary, and Special Education.