Characterization and Quantification of Municipal Solid Waste in Fátima, Ecuadorian Amazon Parish

Abstract

Population growth and economic development have brought a high increase in the generation of municipal solid waste (MSW). The aim of this study is to determine the generation and characterization of solid waste in a rural parish of the Ecuadorian Amazon. A survey was applied and random sampling was carried out in 51 households. The results obtained in the study determined that the generation of waste is 0.51 kg cap-1 day-1 and the apparent density obtained was 191.86 kg m-3. The different types of waste generated were characterized, the percentages obtained were 66% organic matter, 9% plastic, 7% glass, 7% of paper, 1% metals, 3% hygienic waste, 3% wood, 1% textiles and 3% of other varied materials. In addition, a means analysis was performed with the nonparametric Wilcoxon Rank-sum test (Mann Whitney) using the STATA software version 12. The results showed no significant differences (p value> 0.05) in the daily generation in both periods (April / September 2015). The values of the surveys carried out highlight a strong community acceptance towards recycling programs and separation at source. In addition, they request greater involvement of the authorities for the improvement of the current management of waste in the parish. Finally, more studies are recommended in cities and rural communities of Ecuador on the determination of the amount and composition of the waste, since there are many limitations of information, which affects the creation of effective waste management and disposal systems.