Panama City, June 25, 2021 - The Roadmap for the Progressive Closure of Dumpsites in Latin America and the Caribbean aims to establish the requirements and necessary steps to eliminate dumpsites in the region by 2030 and, thus, correct the impacts on health and the environment caused by the inappropriate disposal of solid waste.
The analysis, presented at a high-level event, is the result of the work of the Voluntary coalition of governments and relevant organizations, which has been supported by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). This mechanism was created in 2018, within the framework of the Forum of Ministers of the Environment of Latin America and the Caribbean, where the closure of dumpsites was established as a priority in the fight against pollution.
“The context of the current pandemic presents multiple challenges for the region, including the management of the increasing amount of waste. This is an essential service, key to a sustainable recovery and to leaving no one behind. Promoting programs and initiatives that improve the health of people and ecosystems through a transition towards sustainable consumption and production patterns is essential for the post-COVID-19 reactivation,” said Piedad Martin, UNEP’s acting Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean.
The inadequate disposal of waste is a problem that affects the entire region, although in different proportions. According to the Roadmap’s estimates, 70% of municipalities use inappropriate disposal sites, while total and per capita waste generation continues to increase and recycling rates remain, on average, below 10%. The study indicates that around 145.00 tons of waste per day continues to be destined for landfills, burning or other inappropriate practices, which is equivalent to the waste generated by 170 million people, or 27% of the population in the region.
The Roadmap presented today is designed for national and sub-national governments to adapt to their particular circumstances. Its implementation over the next decade will guarantee a healthy environment for future generations, in line with the commitments established in the framework of the 2030 Agenda.
NOTES TO EDITORS
About the Voluntary coalition of governments and relevant organizations for the progressive closure of dumpsites in Latin America and the Caribbean
The voluntary coalition of governments and relevant organizations for the closure of dumpsites was established in October 2018 at the XXI Meeting of the Forum of Ministers of the Environment of Latin America and the Caribbean. It is currently made up of 17 states and 12 non-governmental organizations in the region, under UNEP’s secretariat. The essential purpose of the Coalition is to support the implementation of the Roadmap for the progressive closure of dumpsites, promoting the effective transition towards comprehensive waste management in the Latin American and Caribbean, raising awareness, and promoting the development of technical and financial guidance.
About the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)
UNEP is the world's leading environmental authority. It provides leadership and encourages joint work in caring for the environment, inspiring, informing and empowering nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. unep.org
For more information, contact the UNEP Regional Communication Unit in Latin America and the Caribbean: unep-latinamerica-news@un.org
