Author(s)

JOSELYNE SOLÓRZANO, DENISSE MEREGILDO, JENNIFER CUEVA-MEDINA, ROBERT BRITO-MATAMOROS, SILVIA LOAIZA, PAÚL CARRIÓN-MERO

Abstract

Inadequate solid waste management through open dumpsites remains a challenge in Latin America, impacting environmental sustainability and public health. In Ecuador, despite a regulatory framework for integrated solid waste management, this issue persists in urban areas such as La Libertad (Santa Elena Province), where limited infrastructure at waste disposal sites aggravates the city’s environmental and social vulnerabilities. This study aimed to assess socio-environmental conflicts in communities near the municipal dumpsite of La Libertad using a non-experimental, survey-based design and to develop a strategic action plan (SAP) to minimize environmental impacts. The methodology followed a mixed-methods approach in three phases: (i) site reconnaissance and data collection, (ii) coding and analysis of responses and impact identification, and (iii) SAP formulation with short- and long-term strategies. Survey results (n = 50) showed that 76% reported environmental impacts, mainly odours (45%), vector proliferation (26%), air pollution (18%) and public waste accumulation (11%). Regarding health, 30% reported that they or a family member experienced a health problem during the last 12 months that they associated with the dumpsite; within this subgroup, the most frequent conditions were infections (36%), respiratory problems (32%), and dermatological conditions (24%). In addition, 78% considered it necessary to improve waste management, prioritizing stronger site control (49%) and environmental education (15%); accordingly, all respondents (100%) preferred implementing a sanitary landfill as the final disposal alternative. Based on these findings, a SAP was developed to support a gradual transition toward controlled final disposal, incorporating leachate and gas control, environmental monitoring, community education and strengthened citizen participation. Overall, proximity to the dumpsite increases perceived socio-environmental risks, while the proposed SAP provides a practical pathway for strengthening environmental management through structured planning, monitoring, and community participation, offering a replicable framework for similar coastal cities facing open dumping challenges.

Keywords

strategic action plan, community participation, environmental pollution, coastal zone, risk perception, waste management