INTEC experts analyze challenges of the waste management system in the Dominican Republic
Specialists of Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo They assess the financial viability and paradigm shifts needed to strengthen national recycling
SANTO DOMINGO – Specialists from Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) analyzed the structural challenges facing waste management in the country, on the occasion of World Recycling Day. Engineers Rosaura Pimentel and Indhira De Jesús pointed out that the effectiveness of the system depends on the financial sustainability of municipalities and on shared responsibility between the State and citizens.
Engineer Rosaura Pimentel, coordinator of the Master's Program in Sanitary and Environmental Engineering at INTEC, explained that source separation is the technical term for classifying waste at the point of generation. Pimentel stated that this practice is essential for extending the lifespan of landfills, regardless of current shortcomings in municipal collection routes.
The specialist identified that the lack of payment for waste collection services by citizens and the deficit in the transfer of government funds to municipalities limit improvements in management. According to Pimentel, this situation prevents the service from being self-sustaining and hinders the implementation of separate routes that would prevent the mixing of recyclable materials with regular garbage.
On the other hand, engineer Indhira De Jesús argued that, while recycling is a valuable tool, a structural solution requires a paradigm shift in the design, marketing, and logistics of consumer goods. De Jesús emphasized that the priority should be reducing waste generation and avoiding the use of excessive packaging or short-lived disposable products.
The engineer emphasized that consumers must assume their share of responsibility in the waste disposal chain. De Jesús maintained that individual willingness to use segregated containers is a critical step, and warned that a lack of civic engagement hinders the transition to more complex and efficient management systems.
Proposals for the formalization of the system
The experts from INTEC agreed that the most urgent step for the country is civic education accompanied by the strict application of a system of consequences. They indicated that municipalities must lead urban solid waste management plans that include improved route design and the integration of separate collection.
Finally, engineer Rosaura Pimentel emphasized the need to dignify the work of informal recyclers at landfills. She urged the public not to discard sharp objects without protection and to deliver clean, dry materials to collection centers to ensure that waste does not end up in landfills.