Community-based management of municipal solid waste: A case study in a rural community of Guerrero, Mexico
Abstract
Inadequate management of municipal solid waste (MSW) in rural areas of southern Mexico represents a major environmental and public health challenge, associated with structural limitations, insufficient coverage of municipal services, and the absence of local regulatory frameworks. This study aimed to describe local MSW management practices, identify institutional and community capacities, and propose sustainable alternatives through a participatory approach in the locality of Las Ánimas, municipality of Tecoanapa, Guerrero, Mexico. An exploratory-descriptive study with a mixed-methods approach was conducted. Data collection included semi-structured interviews with municipal and community authorities, structured surveys applied to a probabilistic sample of 201 households, and a focus group aimed at designing community proposals. Operational aspects of waste generation, collection, transportation, and final disposal were analyzed, along with local perceptions and environmental knowledge. The results indicate an average waste generation of 0.5987 kg per capita per day, a biweekly collection service limited to the main streets, and the absence of local regulations governing waste management. Inadequate disposal in ravines, rivers, and agricultural areas generates negative impacts on soils and water bodies. Traditional practices of organic waste reuse were also identified, although without sanitary control. The community showed a strong willingness to participate in collective strategies, which allowed the formulation of a participatory proposal based on local committees, community waste collection points, source separation, and composting. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening participatory governance schemes that integrate technical innovation, community regulations, and local environmental knowledge to develop sustainable waste management models adapted to rural contexts.
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