Lanzarote sent more than 95,500 tonnes of waste to the Zonzamas complex throughout 2025.
That is an increase of nearly 2% compared with the previous year, according to the latest “Lanzarote in Figures” report published by the Lanzarote Data Centre.
While waste generation has climbed steadily since 2022, the island has still not returned to pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, the same report recorded 107,707 tonnes of waste – 12.9% higher than today.
Arrecife leads, but tourist municipalities follow close behind
By municipality, the capital Arrecife – the island’s most populous city – contributes the most to the rising waste stream, accounting for 25.5% of the total.
Hot on its heels is the tourist municipality of Yaiza, which generates 22% of all waste ending up at Zonzamas. Despite being the third least populated municipality on the island, Yaiza is one of Lanzarote’s main tourism hubs.
Not far behind is Tías, another key tourist centre, which is responsible for 20% of the waste. Remarkably, Tías has nearly 3,000 fewer residents than Yaiza.
Teguise, the second largest municipality by population, ranks fourth in waste generation with 16.24% of the total. San Bartolomé accounts for 8.9%, followed by Haría on 3.24%. Tinajo records the lowest figure, at just 3.19%.
Recycling rates edge up
Separate waste collection has increased slightly, reaching 14,480 tonnes. Glass remains the most recycled material, at 7,750 tonnes, followed by paper and cardboard (4,100 tonnes) and packaging (2,630 tonnes).
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