Solid Waste Management in the Quimis Community of Jipijapa Canton

Abstract

Inadequate solid waste management is an environmental and public health problem because rural communities do not have sufficient infrastructure or environmental education to properly manage solid waste. Therefore, the Quimis community, located in the Jipijapa canton, has a deficient solid waste management that has negative repercussions on the quality of life of its inhabitants and the environment. The objective of the research was to evaluate solid waste management in the commune, detecting the solid waste management practices of its inhabitants and their perceptions, in order to create alternatives for improving solid waste management. The methodology is of mixed approach, applying surveys to 100 people selected by stratified random sampling and direct observation in the research area of the commune. The results reflect the general lack of knowledge: 95% indicate that they do not know what solid waste is, 100% indicate that they do not know the three R's, and 100% say that there is no waste management system. Although 70% consider it important to know how to separate waste, only 10% have tried to do so, and only 40% of those surveyed even recycle at home. The conclusion reached is that the community needs a comprehensive plan for environmental education, infrastructure and promotion of recycling with the participation of local stakeholders and the support of the relevant institutions.