The Canary Islands’ Ministry of Ecological Transition and Energy has launched the awareness campaign “Yellow in Sight!” in partnership with Ecoembes. This initiative will visit 13 beaches across seven islands from September to November, aiming to promote recycling of packaging, clarify the use of yellow recycling bins, and encourage proper waste separation. The campaign is part of a broader plan to enhance waste collection in the Canary Islands, supported by the ministry, Ecoembes, the Canary Federation of Municipalities (FECAM), and local councils.
The campaign was unveiled at Tazacorte beach, marking the first day of activities. Speakers included Mariano H. Zapata, the island’s Minister for Ecological Transition and Energy; Ángel Montañés, Director of Environmental Quality; Fernando González, Minister for Finance and Human Resources; and Carlota Cruz, Manager of Ecoembes in the Canary Islands.
Zapata emphasised the importance of such initiatives for maintaining the natural beauty of the Canary beaches, highlighting the government’s ongoing commitment to environmental awareness. He stressed the need for the local community to understand the importance of recycling for environmental protection.
Montañés noted that the ministry is committed to advancing the circular economy through the 2024-2026 Action Plan, with collaboration from Ecoembes being vital to its success. He pointed out the opportunity to turn waste into new resources, particularly through packaging recycling.
Cruz stated that raising public awareness is crucial for improving recycling rates. The campaign aims to help residents recognise which items should go in the yellow bins and support practices that enhance the circular economy.
“Yellow in Sight!” encourages the public to correctly use yellow bins for cans, cartons, and plastic packaging while enjoying beach activities.
The campaign will include three main actions: awareness activities on beaches, special events targeting families, and a radio campaign to reinforce recycling messages.
From September to November, environmental monitors will be present at 13 beaches across the islands to inform residents and visitors about packaging recycling and address common queries about yellow bins. They will also conduct short surveys to understand local recycling habits and identify common mistakes in waste separation. Participants in the programme will have the chance to win prizes, including waterproof phone cases and portable fans, with a tablet being raffled on each island.
This initiative will also include special actions at significant local events, such as the San Miguel Festival in Tazacorte on 26 September, the Lanzarote Cycling Tour on 3 October, and the International Kite Festival in Corralejo in November. At these events, the messages around recycling will be reinforced through an outdoor puppet show aimed at families.
Together with local events, a radio campaign will further extend the initiative’s reach and promote awareness of recycling packaging, all in alignment with the ongoing efforts to improve waste collection and recycling practices in the Canary Islands.
