Tenerife Launches Emergency Cleanup to Contain Invasive Termite Outbreak in Tacoronte
Authorities in Tenerife have launched an urgent 244,000-euro operation to contain an invasive termite infestation in Tacoronte by clearing a massive, hazardous pile of plant waste.
Local and island authorities have launched an emergency response following the discovery of Reticulitermes flavipes termites in the La Caridad neighborhood of Tacoronte. Because this invasive species has been found far from previously known sites, the Tenerife Island Council and the public company Tragsatec are working together on an urgent operation to stop the insects from spreading further.
The situation is complicated by a massive, uncontrolled pile of roughly 5,000 cubic meters of plant waste in a residential area. This waste is a double threat: it provides a breeding ground for the destructive subterranean termites, which can damage buildings and trees, and it poses a significant fire hazard. Authorities have allocated 244,000 euros to clear and manage a total of 7,000 cubic meters of waste.
At a recent meeting, officials explained the plan to local residents. To prevent the termites from spreading during the cleanup, crews will build a temporary facility with a concrete base and biocide treatment systems. This will allow the waste to be chipped and treated safely. The 200-square-meter work site will be enclosed with metal fencing to keep the public out while the cleanup is underway.
Managing this pest is a priority for the island’s safety, as these termites are highly adaptable and can cause serious structural damage to homes. Once the waste is treated, it will be moved to an authorized landfill, and the temporary facility will be dismantled. This operation marks a significant effort to address and contain a serious biological risk in an urban environment.