The head of Ecological Transition and Energy has noted that managing these toxic wastes presents significant technical and environmental complexity. With other autonomous regions restricting the reception of these materials, the regional executive emphasizes the urgent need to find suitable locations within the archipelago.
During a parliamentary appearance, it was lamented that certain private projects in Gran Canaria have failed to move forward due to political disagreements, despite meeting all environmental and regulatory requirements. The long-term goal, in line with European directives, is for the archipelago to become self-sufficient in managing its own waste.
“"We need brave decisions and a broader perspective, beyond specific islands or political colors."
While a definitive solution is sought, the administration has extended the storage authorizations for micro-cement and asbestos-cement for six months to alleviate the current situation. In 2024, the amount of asbestos collected across the islands reached 4,170 tons, a figure significantly higher than in previous years.
The executive is maintaining contact with business entities to study formulas that could mitigate the additional costs derived from transporting these wastes. The current strategy combines seeking authorized landfills outside the Canary Islands with promoting consensus among island councils and municipalities to facilitate new treatment facilities within the territory.
