A New Initiative to Reduce Waste in Mexico City
Mexico City is rolling out an innovative plan called Zero Waste, aiming to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the city. The program focuses on implementing strategies to prevent and minimize waste, in line with the Mexican government’s goal of creating a more environmentally friendly country.
The Impact of Zero Waste in Mexico City
The Zero Waste program has made significant progress since its introduction in May 2018. The initiative has led to a 21% reduction in the final disposal of solid waste, resulting in a cost savings of 904 million pesos for the city government. The program has also educated hundreds of thousands of residents on the importance of proper waste management and the role they can play in creating a more sustainable environment.
Objectives of the Zero Waste Program
The primary goal of the Zero Waste program is to promote efficient waste separation and delivery by citizens. The program aims to create an environmental policy that focuses on sustainable production and consumption of products. This includes encouraging the use of products with a shorter lifespan, made from materials that can be easily reintegrated into the environment, thereby reducing pollution.
How to Participate in the Zero Waste Program
Anyone living in Mexico City can participate in the Zero Waste program by adopting a few simple habits:
Purchasing Recyclable Products
Buying products that are recyclable can significantly reduce waste pollution. This includes items like plastic containers, glass bottles, and cardboard packaging. These materials can be converted into reusable products or materials through simple or industrial processes.
Separating Waste
Separating waste into different categories is crucial for the success of the Zero Waste program. Waste is divided into four categories: recyclable inorganic materials, non-recyclable inorganic materials, organic materials, and bulky and special handling waste. Understanding these categories can help residents properly separate and deliver their waste.
Delivering Waste
Delivering waste on the designated days is essential for the Zero Waste program. Residents must be aware of the waste collection schedule, which varies depending on the type of waste. The program provides a downloadable app that offers valuable information and tips on how to separate and deliver waste.
Making Compost
Composting organic waste at home is a great way to reduce waste and create a nutrient-rich soil amendment. By composting food waste, residents can significantly reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Plastic Waste in Zero Waste
The Zero Waste program has specific guidelines for plastic waste. Single-use plastics, such as straws, forks, and bags, are prohibited. Residents are encouraged to use reusable products and materials instead. Only plastics that are reusable, washable, and have a longer lifespan are allowed.
Waste Collection Schedule
The Zero Waste program has a designated waste collection schedule:
Organic Waste
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are designated for collecting organic waste.
Recyclable Inorganic Waste
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are designated for collecting recyclable inorganic waste.
Non-recyclable Inorganic Waste
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are designated for collecting non-recyclable inorganic waste.
Special and Bulky Handling Waste
Sundays are designated for collecting special and bulky handling waste.
Learn more about the Zero Waste program by visiting the Sedema portal or downloading the Zero Waste app for iOS and Android.