TULUM, México – Tulum stands out with its diverse options for proper waste disposal in a world where the recycling culture is still developing. Karla Acevedo Polo, a representative of Tulum Sostenible, highlights the importance of correct waste separation and management, emphasizing that today’s efforts will lead to a better tomorrow.
On May 17, World Recycling Day, Acevedo Polo draws attention to programs like Puntos Limpios, Reciclón, and Adopta Vida, along with collection centers, as crucial initiatives that return waste to the recycling chain, eventually reaching the industry for reuse instead of relying on natural resources. She stresses the significant impact of separating waste at home and taking it to designated collection points.
“If we don’t make an effort to separate our waste at home and ensure it reaches the correct destination, we are undoubtedly affecting natural resources,” Acevedo Polo explains. She points out that large amounts of energy and water are required to transform these materials, making it crucial to reduce consumption and understand proper waste separation once the materials have been used.
Tulum offers numerous options for waste management, with various programs supported by associations and authorities. “Tulum is fortunate to be one of the municipalities with the most opportunities for proper waste management, thanks to the numerous spaces like Puntos Limpios. These 12 stations receive up to seven categories of waste, and other programs also capture different types of waste for appropriate disposal,” she notes.
Acevedo Polo underscores that World Recycling Day is an excellent opportunity to discuss this issue, as many people remain unaware of the origins and significance of recycling. She explains that society lacks education on the sources of these materials and the importance of reuse, leading to a low percentage of the population genuinely understanding recycling’s importance.
She finds it timely to explain that all the materials we use daily and the packaging we see at home are made from natural resources such as petroleum, resins from various trees, water, and energy. When people do not separate these materials for recycling, they inadvertently send vast amounts of natural resources to waste.
“If these materials don’t reach the recycling chain and are discarded, industries will extract new natural resources to manufacture more packaging,” she asserts. Acevedo Polo advocates for increased awareness and reduced consumption, emphasizing that recycling should not be the first solution. “The first step is to be more conscious of what we consume and avoid packaging whenever possible,” she advises.
Expanding on the current initiatives in Tulum, the Puntos Limpios stations are strategically located throughout the municipality, making it convenient for residents to recycle. These stations accept a variety of materials, including plastics, glass, paper, cardboard, metals, electronics, and even hazardous waste. The Reciclón program focuses on electronic waste, offering collection drives where residents can safely dispose of old devices. Meanwhile, Adopt a Vida encourages community participation in environmental conservation through educational programs and cleanup activities.
Acevedo Polo highlights the collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and non-profit organizations in promoting recycling and sustainability. “The success of these programs depends on community involvement and continuous education,” she says. Workshops and seminars are regularly organized to educate residents on the importance of recycling and how to do it effectively.
One significant challenge that Tulum faces is the transient nature of its population, which has many tourists and seasonal residents. This makes consistent recycling practices more challenging to maintain. To address this, Tulum Sostenible and other organizations have launched campaigns targeting locals and visitors, providing information on proper waste disposal and encouraging participation in recycling programs.
Looking ahead, Acevedo Polo envisions a Tulum where recycling becomes second nature to all its inhabitants. “Our goal is to make recycling an integral part of everyday life, not just on special occasions like World Recycling Day,” she states. She believes that with sustained effort and community support, Tulum can set an example for other municipalities in Mexico and beyond.
In conclusion, Tulum’s proactive approach to waste management and recycling is commendable. As the municipality continues to expand its recycling initiatives and educate its population, it sets a benchmark for sustainable living. Tulum is taking significant steps toward a greener future by embracing recycling and reducing consumption.
