Concerns Rise Over ‘Wet Wipe Monster’ Disrupting Tenerife’s Sewage System

A troubling environmental issue has surfaced in Tenerife, where a massive buildup of wet wipes has been discovered in the sewer system, causing significant operational challenges for local water management authorities. This alarming situation has sparked widespread concern among residents and officials alike.

The water management company in La Laguna, Teidagua, has taken to social media to share a striking video that highlights the severity of the damage inflicted by these non-biodegradable products. The footage serves as a stark visual representation of the critical problem of wet wipes clogging the public water network, drawing attention to the urgent need for community action.

Teidagua’s findings reveal that during the first half of 2025, wet wipes emerged as the leading cause of blockages within the sewage system. The company reported that these materials are responsible for an astonishing 100% of breakdowns occurring at pumping stations, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

In an effort to combat this ongoing issue, Teidagua disclosed that their team removes approximately 30 tonnes of wet wipes from the sewer system each year. This persistent challenge not only highlights the need for public awareness regarding proper disposal methods but also raises questions about the long-term sustainability of the local sewage infrastructure.

Consequences for Local Beaches and Public Health

The ramifications of this wet wipe crisis have prompted local authorities to implement precautionary measures to safeguard public health. In February, the Candelaria Town Council issued a warning to both residents and visitors, advising against swimming at the popular Los Guanches and El Alcalde beaches.

This swimming ban was enacted following a discharge incident detected on February 21, which originated from a manhole in the combined sewage network located on Avenida de La Constitución. The discharge was directly linked to the persistent accumulation of wet wipes in the sewer system, raising concerns about water quality and safety.

Despite ongoing cleaning efforts and preventive maintenance conducted by the municipal water service, the problem continues to persist, leading to significant financial burdens for the municipality. The damage caused by these blockages has necessitated the replacement of essential pumps, further straining local resources and highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive solution.

Raising Awareness and Promoting Responsible Disposal

In response to the growing crisis, Teidagua has launched a public awareness campaign aimed at educating the community about the importance of proper waste disposal. They have strongly urged individuals to refrain from flushing wet wipes down toilets, as these products do not decompose like traditional toilet paper and can lead to severe plumbing issues.

In a recent social media post, Teidagua humorously dubbed the large mass of wet wipes a “wet wipe monster,” emphasizing the necessity for community cooperation in addressing this pressing issue. The company reminded the public that toilets are not equipped to handle all types of waste, and that wet wipes should be disposed of in trash bins instead.

The ongoing challenges posed by wet wipes in Tenerife’s sewer system serve as a poignant reminder of the broader implications of improper waste disposal. Local authorities are actively seeking innovative solutions to mitigate the impact of these materials on public health and infrastructure, while also striving to foster a culture of responsible waste management among residents.

As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that collective action is essential in tackling the wet wipe crisis. The collaboration between local authorities, water management companies, and the community will be crucial in ensuring the health and safety of both the environment and the public.

Key points

• A large accumulation of wet wipes has been discovered in Tenerife’s sewer system.
• Teidagua reported that wet wipes caused 100% of breakdowns at pumping stations in early 2025.
• Approximately 30 tonnes of wet wipes are removed from the sewer system each year.
• The Candelaria Town Council banned swimming at Los Guanches and El Alcalde beaches due to sewage discharges.
• The discharge incident was linked to a blockage caused by wet wipes.
• Public awareness campaigns are underway to educate residents on proper disposal methods.