Wet Wipes Clog Tenerife Sewer Systems, Triggering Costly Repairs and Environmental Risks

Managing water infrastructure in southern Tenerife has become a major challenge, according to the utility company Entemanser. The issue highlights how vulnerable sanitation systems are to the improper use of toilets, which is currently disrupting pumping stations in municipalities like Adeje, Guía de Isora, and Granadilla de Abona.

In the first few months of 2026, the company removed 200,000 kilograms of wet wipes from the system. Despite labels claiming these products are biodegradable, they do not break down in water. Once they enter the sewer network, they tangle in pumping equipment, causing blockages that require costly emergency repairs not covered by standard maintenance budgets.

Entemanser warns that these incidents create a financial ripple effect. Because there is no specific budget for these repairs, money is diverted away from necessary facility upgrades and modernization. Additionally, the buildup of waste forces pumps to work harder, significantly increasing electricity consumption.

The problem goes beyond technical issues, posing risks to both public health and the environment. When pumping wells become clogged, there is less room to handle unexpected surges, which increases the risk of sewage spills. A clear example occurred in November 2025 at Los Guanches beach in Candelaria, where a blockage caused by wipes and construction debris led to a sewage leak. This forced authorities to close the beach while they tested the water quality.

This situation highlights the fragility of our sanitation systems—a vital service that remains unavailable to billions of people worldwide, according to the United Nations. The crisis in the Canary Islands serves as a reminder that the sustainability of our infrastructure depends on both expert management and responsible behavior in every home.