Bariloche proposes new recycling regime for large waste generators

In Bariloche, Argentina, Mayor Walter Cortés has introduced ordinance project 726 to address the city's municipal landfill crisis. The open-air landfill, which receives over 200 tons of waste daily, has been identified by the International Solid Waste Association as one of the 50 most dangerous in the world.

The proposed ordinance aims to establish a recycling regime for large generators of urban solid waste, including institutions, businesses, and specific events. According to the project, approximately 50% of the waste currently reaching the landfill has commercial and environmental value that could be reintegrated into a circular economy.

A key component of the initiative is the creation of a ‘green discount,’ which would provide tax benefits on waste collection fees for entities that demonstrate verifiable responsible waste management practices. The goal is to transform general planning guidelines into operational tools to prevent the formation of informal micro-dumps throughout the city.