Organic Waste Recovery as a Circular Economy and Climate Change Mitigation Strategy in the Santa María Recicla Program, Santa María del Mar District (2023–2025)

Abstract

This research analyzes the valorization of organic waste developed within the framework of the Santa María Recicla municipal program during the period 2023–2025, from the perspective of the circular economy applied to local solid waste management. The study examines the evolution of the tonnage valorized based on consolidated monthly records and estimates the potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions resulting from diverting biodegradable waste to composting processes. The results demonstrate that transforming organic waste into compost not only reduces pressure on landfills and methane emissions, but also allows for the closing of nutrient cycles through its reincorporation into green areas and public spaces in the district. Under this approach, the program is configured as an operational model of a circular economy at the municipal level, converting waste into useful resources, promoting citizen participation, and optimizing the use of materials within the territory. Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of having reliable monitoring systems and quantitative data to assess environmental impacts and strengthen decision-making in local public policies. Overall, the experience shows that the valorization of organic waste can be consolidated as a strategic axis for urban sustainability, climate change mitigation and the replicability of good practices in other local governments.