Canary Islands 2026 Inspection Program

Overview

The Canary Islands' Environmental Department has approved the 2026 Inspection Program, part of a broader plan running from 2024 to 2026, aimed at ensuring industries comply with environmental regulations.

This year, inspectors will focus on both routine inspections of 20 key facilities—including refineries, waste management sites, and manufacturing plants—and targeted checks prompted by citizen complaints, accidents, or permit changes.

Key Features of the Program

• Emphasis on risk-based inspections, prioritizing facilities with higher environmental danger.
• Evaluations employ European standards to classify risks, informing the inspection frequency—ranging from annual to triennial visits.
• High-risk installations, such as Tenerife’s oil refinery, will undergo more frequent scrutiny.

Inspection Activities

• On-site checks.
• Review of documentation.
• Monitoring of emissions.
• Assessment of the progress of previous inspection recommendations, such as implementing Best Available Techniques (BAT).

Cooperation and Oversight

• Reinforces cooperation with national and European environmental agencies, ensuring comprehensive oversight.

Significance

"With tourism, agriculture, and industry vital to the islands’ economy, robust environmental monitoring safeguards residents’ health and preserves the natural beauty that makes Canaries a global favorite."

• Continuous inspections and strategic risk assessments help prevent accidents, pollution, and illegal activities.
• Reinforces the islands’ commitment to sustainable development.