Von Sandra Burkhardt
Sewage flows unfiltered into the sea. This is also the case in Puerto de la Cruz, where a faulty sewage pipe has been causing visible pollution on a daily basis for years. Even if it were repaired, the problem would not be resolved – the water would still flow unfiltered. The beach remains closed to this day.
On the islands, rubbish is mostly incinerated or buried. This releases microplastics, toxic gases and heavy metals into the air and groundwater – an invisible but serious health risk.
Traffic has long since ground to a standstill. There are more registered vehicles on Tenerife than there are residents. The daily traffic jams not only pollute the air, but also erode the population’s quality of life.
Social consequences: the Canary Islands at breaking point
The massive environmental pollution is reflected in alarming health statistics. Respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, allergies and even lung cancer – particularly among women – are rising rapidly. Fine particulate matter, exacerbated by Calima, is making people ill – every day.
Locals can barely afford to live in the Canary Islands any longer. Rents and house prices are skyrocketing. The economy’s exclusive focus on tourism is driving young people away, as there are hardly any prospects left. The islands are losing their population – and at the same time are being sold off bit by bit.
Public discontent has long been palpable. Protests against tourism, environmental destruction and political inaction are on the rise. Yet the root cause runs deeper: it is not a lack of ideas – but a lack of political will to put them into practice.
Petition against sewage discharges in the Canary Islands
In April 2024, I myself fell seriously ill. My symptoms were later linked to contaminated water. I reported my observations to the local authorities – to no avail. After I contacted international bodies, the beaches were closed a few weeks later.
However, to date, there has been no response from the water authority.
That is why, in September 2024, I launched a petition to highlight who is responsible and to demand solutions that must finally be put into practice.
What is needed now:
- Pre-filtered wastewater discharges – throughout the Canary Islands
- Prevention and recycling rather than incineration of waste and microplastics
- Reducing traffic and developing sustainable infrastructure
- Promoting health protection, not just tourism figures
- Our solution – applicable locally
The Canary Islands need more than just words right now – they need action. You can find the petition on the change.org platform under the title: „Clean beaches and clean water for Tenerife – against unfiltered sewage being discharged into the sea“.
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