Introduction: Why Start a Solid Waste Project?

The mismanagement of solid waste is an issue that affects the majority of communities here in Peru. The rapid growth of the Peruvian economy and the expansion of consumer products to the most remote corners of the country are only exacerbating Peru’s waste problem. Waste management will continue to be a pressing problem in many Peruvian communities, both urban and rural, without a radical change of attitudes and behaviors.

In the last couple of years, Peru has reached a tipping point with regard to solid waste management issues. The national solid waste law was passed in 2000, requiring all municipalities to develop a solid waste management plan. While many municipalities have not complied with the law, many others have already developed solid waste management plans and taken steps to implement them. Additionally, there are many governmental organizations, non-governmental organizations and even local community organizations making progress in certain communities on this issue. In spite of municipal inertia and the challenges of promoting responsible consumers, this is a great time to be working on waste management issues in Peru.

Some may have an interest on waste management issues but are simply overwhelmed by the scale of the issue. Others, recognizing the gravity of the problem but not the limits of their influence, aim to launch a comprehensive waste management program only to end up disappointed. The reality is that individuals can make a significant difference in their communities working with solid waste management, especially considering the breadth of issues involved with waste:

public health

environmental health
environmental education

leadership
municipal development

empowerment of communities
income generation.

In order to avoid the common frustrations experienced by those working on solid waste management projects, this manual has been written to help explain the process of facilitating the planning and implementation of a waste management system that is appropriate for the community.