On Saturday, November 29, more than 60 dedicated volunteers gathered for a beach clean-up at Playa Grande, El Porís. We met at 10:00 AM and began collecting waste along the beach, by the road, and throughout the nearby valley. In a few short hours, our combined effort resulted in the removal of over 245 kg of trash.
Why El Porís needed it
El Porís is considered one of Tenerife’s most polluted beaches, frequently overwhelmed by marine debris and plastics carried by the currents. This clean-up was more than just a cleanup, it was a small but meaningful fight back against environmental neglect.
The waste collected included plastic bottles, wrappers, fishing nets, scattered trash along the road and the ravine , a reminder of how fragile and vulnerable coastal zones are when unprotected.
Community spirit
We were especially happy to see how many children and families joined the clean-up. Even a group of kids from a local school came to help. After the hard work, we gathered to celebrate, volunteers enjoyed sandwiches prepared by 70s Café Porís and refreshed with cold drinks from our partner Ocean Beer.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us in El Porís. We truly appreciate your help and positive energy. We hope to see you again at our next beach clean-up in the new year
Together we can keep Tenerife’s coastline clean and protected.
Let’s Protect the Canary Islands Together
The problem of plastic pollution on Tenerife’s coasts is real. According to scientific studies, beaches such as Playa Grande register some of the highest levels of plastic debris and microplastic contamination on the island.
Clean-up events like this one do more than tidy up, they raise awareness, build community, and remind us that every piece of trash removed reduces danger to wildlife, water quality, and the ecosystem.
Moreover, when children come and help, the impact goes beyond a single morning, it plants a seed of responsibility and respect for the environment that can grow for life.
👉 Get involved and join our WhatsApp group to stay updated on clean-ups, events, and ways to take action. Every small step matters, and together we can make a real difference.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Photographers & Videomakers:
- Environmental chemist & Sustainable Tourism Consultant: Luca Buiatti
- Account Manager: Barbora Kučerová
- Project Manager: Karolína Lišková
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