Arona Council Faces Tough Decisions on Cooking Oil Collection Amid Vandalism Issues

The Arona Council is currently grappling with the potential discontinuation of its used cooking oil collection service, a decision prompted by persistent issues of vandalism and the improper use of recycling containers. This situation has raised concerns among local officials and residents alike, as the effectiveness of the recycling initiative hangs in the balance.

During a recent plenary meeting, council members addressed a proposal put forth by the Socialist Group (PSOE), which aimed to tackle the significant decline in the quality of the cooking oil collection service. The motion, led by spokesperson Rosana Jiménez, called for immediate technical inspections of the recycling containers, corrective measures at locations identified as problematic, and stricter enforcement of the existing collection contract.

Jiménez did not hold back in her criticism of the council’s handling of the situation, emphasizing the deteriorating condition of the collection containers. She pointed out that these containers have become increasingly dirty and damaged, emitting unpleasant odors in key areas such as Los Cristianos, Costa del Silencio, and El Fraile. Her remarks underscored a growing frustration among residents who rely on these services for proper waste disposal.

In a response to the concerns raised, Clari Pérez, the Councillor for the Environment, acknowledged the issues but attributed a significant portion of the problems to public misuse. She noted that some residents have been observed kicking the containers or improperly depositing non-recyclable waste materials, which exacerbates the situation and undermines the recycling efforts.

Pérez also presented alarming statistics that highlight the severity of the issue. From January to October 2025, only 20 liters of used vegetable oil were collected throughout the municipality. This strikingly low figure has been directly linked to both vandalism and the incorrect usage of the recycling containers, raising questions about the sustainability of the program.

In light of these challenges, Pérez emphasized the critical need for enhancing public awareness regarding proper disposal practices. She asserted that a change in behavior among residents is essential for the success of the recycling initiative, and that individuals must face tangible consequences for their actions to foster a sense of responsibility.

The council’s decision regarding the future of the cooking oil collection service is set to be reassessed as part of the upcoming municipal cleaning contract renewal, which is scheduled for 2027. This timeline indicates that immediate solutions may not be forthcoming, leaving residents and environmental advocates concerned about the long-term viability of the program.

As the council navigates these complex issues, the community remains hopeful for a resolution that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and public engagement. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible waste management and the collective responsibility of residents to support local recycling initiatives.

In the meantime, the council is expected to explore various strategies to mitigate vandalism and improve the overall effectiveness of the cooking oil collection service. This may include increased surveillance of collection sites, community outreach programs to educate residents on proper disposal methods, and potential collaborations with local organizations to promote responsible waste management.

As discussions continue, the Arona Council faces a pivotal moment in determining the future of its cooking oil collection service. The outcome will not only impact the local environment but also reflect the community’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible citizenship.

Key points

• The Arona Council is considering discontinuing its used cooking oil collection service due to vandalism and misuse.
• A proposal from the Socialist Group (PSOE) aimed to address the decline in service quality was dismissed during a recent meeting.
• Rosana Jiménez criticized the council for the poor condition of collection containers in various neighborhoods.
• Clari Pérez attributed many issues to public misuse, including improper disposal of waste.
• Only 20 liters of used vegetable oil were collected from January to October 2025, raising concerns about the program’s effectiveness.
• The council plans to reassess the cooking oil collection service as part of the municipal cleaning contract renewal in 2027.