Arona’s Waste Transfer Plant Transformed into Logistics Centre
The Cabildo of Tenerife is investing €3.5 million to upgrade the former Malpaso Waste Transfer Plant in Arona into a Logistics Centre. This transformation aims to improve waste management across the region.
Key features of the upgrade include new processing for bulky waste, the establishment of a clean point for recycling, and a new service area for caravans. The caravan facility will allow users to empty waste tanks and refill with drinking water, enhancing services for those in the island’s south.
Rosa Dávila, the President of the Cabildo, emphasised the commitment to modernise and enhance infrastructure, noting that the centre will now offer a wider range of services. Plans are also in place for additional service areas at nearby facilities in San Miguel and Arico.
Improvements have included a covered structure for bulky waste handling and upgrades to the leachate treatment system, alongside branding for ‘Tenerife+Sustainable’ throughout the complex. These efforts aim to increase efficiency in processing waste from several municipalities, including Arona and Adeje.
Blanca Pérez, the Councillor for Natural Environment, highlighted the importance of the centre in waste management, stating that it will facilitate differentiated processing of bulky items. The introduction of a clean point further supports recycling efforts and promotes sustainability on the island.
Alejandro Molowny, director of waste services, reflected on the significance of this upgrade for the island’s waste management model. Fátima Lemes, the Mayor of Arona, added that the new services meet current needs, particularly for caravans.
The Malpaso Logistics Centre will enhance its role in waste management, now equipped with a clean point and facilities tailored for bulky waste and caravan services. The Cabildo anticipates cutting transport by 60-80%, reducing the need for up to 995 annual trips related to bulky waste alone.
In 2025, the Arona Transfer Plant handled 161,925 tonnes of waste, accounting for 34.73% of the total managed across the island’s facilities. The clean point recorded 6,998 tonnes of waste, serving nearly 29,000 users that year.
