Cabildo Boosts Waste Management with Completion of Cell 4 in Zurita

New infrastructure strengthens island waste treatment with a €3.2 million self‑funded investment

The Cabildo of Fuerteventura, through its Waste Department, has finished the construction of Cell 4 at the Zurita Environmental Complex. Funded with €3.2 million from the island corporation’s own resources, the new cell is now ready for operation, enhancing waste treatment across the island and increasing Zurita’s capacity by more than one million cubic metres.

“Waste management is one of the great island challenges, so it is a priority for this corporation,” said Lola García, President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura. “As a result of the actions we have driven, Fuerteventura is the island that is growing the most in recycling. The trend was confirmed in 2025, moving us from the bottom of the rankings to leading in some fractions, such as glass.”

García added that the Cabildo is continuing to upgrade its infrastructure:

• 2026 budget: €7.42 million allocated to tackle major waste challenges.
• Inert‑waste cell: Construction of a new cell for construction and demolition debris is planned for this year.
• Zurita adaptation and urbanisation: Works already under contract, with an investment of around €3 million.

Enrique Pérez, the island’s Waste Counselor, highlighted Cell 4 as a cornerstone of the Island Waste Plan.

“Today we inaugurate a new landfill cell while we keep advancing toward more sustainable models based on reduction, reuse and recycling,” Pérez said. “Infrastructure such as Cell 4 is essential to guarantee a safe, controlled and environmentally responsible management of the waste we generate.”

Cell 3 was reaching the end of its useful life, making the construction of Cell 4 crucial. The new cell adds over one million cubic metres of capacity and incorporates advanced systems for leachate control, gas reduction and waterproofing.

The facility complies with current regulations and reinforces the Cabildo’s commitment to environmental protection, public health and continuous improvement of public services.

“Our goal is to extend the life of the cell while continuing to prioritize and invest in alternatives that increase recycling,” Pérez explained. “The Composting and Classification Plant at Zurita is fundamental. The Canary Islands Government has pledged to resume its work, which will help avoid roughly 20‑30 % of the waste that currently goes to the cell and will divert another 20 % of organic material.”

“We have also upgraded the transfer plants to accommodate the fifth container, and we will keep optimizing existing infrastructure, strengthening environmental sustainability across the island and contributing to a more responsible and efficient waste management system,” Pérez concluded.