"Some guidelines on open dump sites"

Collab: Sofía Belen Sos, student of Environmental Sciences (University of Salvador), with experience in educational tutoring and a passion for the environment

Currently, our country faces a series of environmental challenges, one of the most pressing being the problem of open dumps, which are spreading across our entire national territory. These sites are characterized by the indiscriminate disposal of various solid wastes, without the implementation of environmental protection measures or operations.

It is essential to highlight that, on average, a person generates approximately 1 kilogram of household solid waste per day, which totals 365 kilograms per year, and over a lifetime (approximately) sadly amounts to an average of 29,200 kilograms. Extrapolating this figure nationally, we encounter an astounding total of 1.35 trillion kilograms annually, of which 43% end up in open dumps.

The causes of this situation are diverse and complex, but the lack of infrastructure in municipalities to properly manage solid waste is one of them (remember the case of the open dump in Luján? We will discuss it below), including the lack of appropriate sites for landfills, recycling plants, and specific treatments for each type of waste (although fortunately this activity is being carefully managed and is aligned with the global trend towards a circular economy and sustainable development). Additionally, limited civic education on proper household waste separation and resistance to changes in consumption habits are other significant factors.

• Social consequences: These are evident and concerning, including an increase in respiratory problems in nearby communities, a decrease in quality of life in surrounding areas, displacement of entire communities, and depreciation of land value. The presence of unpleasant odors and toxic substances in these dumps promotes the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as dengue, and creates visual pollution that deters businesses and anyone interested in the area

• Environmental consequences: There is significant soil and water contamination, as well as an increase in fires and the loss of biodiversity. The lack of waste treatment allows toxic substances to seep into the soil, degrading its quality and hindering plant growth. The resulting leachate contaminates nearby water bodies, threatening aquatic life. Fires, often set to reduce waste accumulation, produce toxic emissions, uncontrolled fires, and air pollution. Additionally, environmental degradation at these sites drives away wildlife, negatively impacting biodiversity.
  

In response to this, Law Number 25.916 was enacted in 2004, addressing the management of urban solid waste. However, its efficient implementation nationwide remains a challenge. Simultaneously, the national government (In Argentina) implemented the Federal Plan for the Eradication of Open Dumps, focusing on the construction of waste treatment infrastructure, promoting the circular economy, strengthening recyclers and their families, and encouraging source separation and recycling. The repeal of Decree 591/2019, which allowed the entry of all types of waste into the country, is part of these efforts.

Taking the municipality of Luján as an example, which hosts the largest open dump in Argentina, spanning 12 hectares and 60 years old. Residents of this area live with pollution and face direct consequences, such as an increase in respiratory illnesses, a decline in water quality, and a higher incidence of vector-borne diseases. Thanks to the tireless efforts of neighborhood movements and reports from various NGOs, this year the National Government has initiated a comprehensive plan that includes the construction of a recycling plant, waste treatment facilities, and a sanitary landfill.

In conclusion, addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach at both the governmental and community levels #ForABetterWorld. It is essential to improve municipal infrastructure for waste management, promote environmental education, and encourage public participation in waste separation and recycling. Additionally, policies should be established to incentivize sustainable practices in consumption and waste disposal, with the goal of mitigating negative impacts on health and the environment.