Ecuador is home to some of Earth’s most unique and diverse ecosystems, including the Galapagos Islands. Many of these, particularly coastal and marine habitats, are affected by plastic pollution due to poorly managed solid waste on the mainland and in the Galapagos Archipelago. For instance, in 2022 around 14,000 tons of solid waste were generated in Ecuador, with only between six and eight percent recovered for use. Furthermore, it is estimated that more than 30 percent of the plastic found on the coasts of the Galapagos Islands originates in continental Ecuador. Integrated solid waste management (ISWM) systems handle waste comprehensively by reducing, reusing, recycling, composting, recovering energy, and safely disposing of what’s left. The lack of these systems threatens biodiversity, scenic beauty, public health, and economic opportunities.

The Recycling, Adapting, Developing, Adjusting, and Renovating (RADAR) Activity will reduce ocean plastic pollution by creating ISWM systems in six key municipalities of the Galápagos and Manabí provinces. The interventions of the Activity are designed to promote collaboration and sustainability. They are guided by cooperative principles, emphasizing mutual aid, democratic decision-making, and shared ownership. Additionally, they follow the concept of a circular economy, focusing on reducing waste and maximizing the reuse and recycling of resources to create sustainable systems. These interventions promote a connection of recovered waste materials with profitable and sustainable private markets, supporting local actors in creating business opportunities in the ISWM value chain, and encouraging residents to reduce and properly sort waste.

ANTICIPATED RESULTS

• Manage 42,340 metric tons of solid waste per year, including 4,657 metric tons of rigid plastic, to prevent environmental contamination.
• Develop or strengthen at least 80 local organizations, creating leadership and business opportunities in the ISWM value chain for 2,000 people, especially women, youth, and people with disabilities
• Improve four recycling centers in Sucre, Jama, Santa Cruz, and San Cristobal Municipalities.
• Reduce 10,000 metric tons of CO2-equivalent emissions.