The head of Government of Mexico City, Clara Brugada Molinaannounced the creation of the Comprehensive Waste Management Agency (AGIR), a pioneering initiative that seeks to transform the way the capital manages the 12,454 daily tons of solid waste it generates.
The new institution aims to increase recycling, reduce garbage generation and optimize resources through the circular economy, positioning Mexico City as a leader in environmental management in Latin America.
Ambitious objectives and concrete goals
The ACT will focus on:
- Consolidate a unified system for waste separation.
- Promote the circular economy, valorizing recyclable materials.
- Reduce waste generation and environmental impacts.
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Build advanced infrastructure for organic waste management.
Clara Brugada stated that the initial goal is to achieve 50 percent recycling in six years, something that, although challenging, she considered essential to mitigate the environmental impact.
“With the creation of the Comprehensive Waste Management Agency we will advance in the sustainable management generated by our city,” he stated. “It is essential to take the leap to increase the amount of waste that is reused or transformed and achieve the goal of the circular economy.”
The Secretary of Works and Services, Raúl Basulto Luviano, reported on plans to expand the five construction waste transformation centers, allowing the creation of recycled materials such as paving stones, blocks and sidewalks.
On the other hand, the Secretary of the Environment, Julia Álvarez Icaza Ramírez, pointed out that more than 50 percent of the waste generated in the city is for special management, which makes it essential to have an entity that coordinates efforts in its treatment.
Economic and environmental benefits
The AGIR promises not only to improve the quality of life of the capital’s residents, but also to generate jobs in the environmental sector and promote a more sustainable economy. Brugada stressed that the agency will not represent an additional cost for the administration and will work in collaboration with the mayors to renew 50 percent of the collection vehicle fleet.
The AGIR will begin its operation within a period of 180 days, a period in which its structure will be defined and the different areas related to waste management will be integrated.
What challenges does Clara Brugada Molina foresee in implementing the Comprehensive Waste Management Agency in Mexico City?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Clara Brugada Molina, Head of Government of Mexico City
Time.news Editor: Good day, Clara Brugada Molina. Thank you for joining us today. Your recent announcement regarding the creation of the Comprehensive Waste Management Agency (AGIR) has certainly garnered attention. Can you elaborate on what prompted this pioneering initiative in Mexico City?
Clara Brugada Molina: Thank you for having me! Mexico City generates around 12,454 tons of solid waste daily, which poses a significant challenge to our environment and resources. The need for an innovative approach to waste management became evident. AGIR aims to transform our relationship with waste and position Mexico City as a leader in sustainable practices in Latin America.
Time.news Editor: That’s a significant ambition! Can you share specific objectives that AGIR will be focusing on to achieve these environmental goals?
Clara Brugada Molina: Absolutely! Our ambitions are both clear and ambitious. We intend to consolidate a unified system for waste separation within the city. This will not only promote recycling but also valorize recyclable materials through a robust circular economy framework. We’re committed to reducing waste generation and its environmental impacts, cutting down greenhouse gas emissions, and building advanced infrastructure specifically for managing organic waste.
Time.news Editor: Those are impressive goals. One target you mentioned is a recycling rate of 50 percent within six years. What strategies do you envision implementing to reach that target?
Clara Brugada Molina: To achieve this goal, we will prioritize education and public engagement. A pivotal part of our strategy will involve raising awareness about proper waste separation and the importance of recycling. We’ll also incentivize businesses and households to participate actively. Additionally, enhancing infrastructure for collection and processing recyclable materials will be paramount.
Time.news Editor: Public engagement will certainly play a significant role. How can citizens participate in this initiative, and what resources will AGIR provide to assist them?
Clara Brugada Molina: Citizens are crucial to the success of AGIR. We’ll roll out educational campaigns and workshops so residents understand their role in this new system. Resources such as separate bins for recyclables and composting initiatives will be made available, along with a digital portal that offers information on local recycling centers and events.
Time.news Editor: With these ambitious plans in place, how do you foresee Mexico City’s position in terms of sustainability and environmental management changing over the next few years?
Clara Brugada Molina: If we execute our plans effectively, I see Mexico City emerging as a beacon of sustainability in Latin America. Our efforts could serve as a model for other cities, showcasing how a comprehensive waste management system can not only protect the environment but also promote economic benefits through the circular economy.
Time.news Editor: That’s a hopeful vision for the future! As we wrap up, what message would you like to leave with our readers about the importance of waste management and AGIR’s role in it?
Clara Brugada Molina: Waste management is not just about dealing with trash; it’s about rethinking our entire consumption and disposal habits. AGIR represents a commitment to a more sustainable future, and I urge every citizen to become an active participant in this initiative. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Clara Brugada Molina. It’s inspiring to hear about the significant steps Mexico City is taking toward sustainable waste management. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts of the AGIR initiative in the near future!
Clara Brugada Molina: Thank you! It was a pleasure to discuss our vision with you.