The Puerto de la Cruz Council will soon launch an awareness campaign urging residents to properly dispose of their rubbish, something that is also a problem in other areas of Tenerife, by respecting designated collection times and using the correct bins, rather than leaving bags on the street.
The initiative aims to tackle a growing waste management issue in the city, exacerbated by people’s failure to follow these guidelines.
Alonso Acevedo, the Councilman for General Services, emphasised the importance of community cooperation, stating, "If residents don't collaborate, the city will always have a problem with rubbish." He pointed out that something as simple as flattening a cardboard box or plastic bottle, so that it takes up less space, can make a difference.
His comments came in response to complaints from residents living near the Iders building, a major commercial area, where rubbish has been piling up both in and around bins. This accumulation has led to the increased presence of rats and cockroaches.
Despite efforts by Diego Moreno, the Councilman for Commerce, who distributed information about proper waste disposal schedules, large boxes and containers are still being discarded improperly, adding to the problem.
Acevedo expressed confusion over why some residents insist on dumping trash, especially cardboard, at specific points like Avenida Familia Betancourt y Molina, when other nearby containers, such as those on Avenida Colón, are available. He acknowledged that this was not the only problematic area, noting similar issues in other locations like Calzada de Martiánez.
The councilman explained that waste collection frequency has remained consistent, and the city's population has not grown significantly enough to justify the current levels of rubbish being generated. However, he acknowledged that improvements are necessary, as the waste collection and street cleaning contracts are under strain. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and residents to resolve these issues.
As for the Iders building, Acevedo admitted that it remains a significant challenge until its interior can be thoroughly cleaned. He emphasised that while the issue of trash outside can be addressed by both the authorities and citizens, collective action is essential to keep the streets clean.
Moving forward, the City Council plans to review the frequency of waste collection services and explore additional solutions, such as increasing the number of big bins in areas where they are most needed.
