DIAGNÓSTICO DEL MANEJO DE RESIDUOS SÓLIDOS EN EL PARQUE HISTÓRICO GUAYAQUIL

Abstract

Se realizó un diagnóstico del manejo de residuos sólidos del Parque Histórico Guayaquil (PHG) para determinar la generación de residuos sólidos, verificar su gestión con base en la normativa y proponer alternativas viables para un adecuado manejo, utilizando métodos cualitativo y cuantitativo con alcance descriptivo. Se realizaron entrevistas a actores clave. Los residuos se cuantificaron durante ocho semanas y la identificación cualitativa se realizó con un muestreo puntual y lineamientos de normas nacionales e internacionales. Los desechos no peligrosos registraron 452 kg en promedio semanal y mostraron una relación directa con el número de visitantes. Los desechos peligrosos pesaron 7.5 kg y los especiales 20 kg. Las categorías por tipo de residuo fueron: 5% peligrosos, 12% especiales y 83% no peligrosos. De éstos, el 45% corresponde a orgánicos, 27% a reciclables y el 11% a no reciclables. Se determinó un 36% de cumplimiento de 70 aspectos evaluados de la normativa ambiental aplicable, por lo que se debe implementar la gestión de residuos y obtener los permisos ambientales. El impacto ambiental por la generación de desechos no debería enfocarse en la cantidad sino en su tipo y manejo. El PHG cuenta con infraestructura y potencial para convertirse en un modelo de gestión replicable. // This study was performed in Parque Historico Guayaquil (PHG), to diagnose waste management practices undertaken in said establishment. It was accomplished through the characterization of waste generation, verification of its management according to environmental regulations, and by recommending alternatives for its optimum management. Qualitative and quantitative methods with a descriptive scope were used during research. Information was gathered through visits and interviews with key individuals. Measurements were taken during eight weeks and identification was performed through a one-time sampling following national and international guidelines. Non-hazardous wastes reported an average of 452 kg and showed a direct relation between generation and the number of visitors. The onetime samplings for hazardous and special waste ware reported at 7.5 kg and 20 kg respectively. Characterization by category corresponded to 5% to hazardous waste, 12% special waste and 83% non-hazardous waste. This last result yielded in 45% of organic, 27% recyclables and 11% non-recyclables. The evaluation of environmental regulations revealed 36% compliance; therefore, PHG should consider resuming and implementing procedures that trigger comprehensive waste management as well as obtaining environmental permits. Waste generation’s impacts should focus not only in quantity but also in type and management practices. PHG has the infrastructure as well as the potential to turn into a replicable waste management model.