Guatemala court orders Amatitlán landfill to remain open

The Constitutional Court of Guatemala has unanimously ordered President Bernardo Arévalo, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN), and the Amatitlán Basin and Lake Sustainable Management Authority (AMSA) to keep the Amatitlán landfill open. The ruling prevents the technical closure originally scheduled for August 31.

The decision follows an injunction filed by the municipalities of Villa Nueva, Amatitlán, and San Miguel Petapa. AMSA had submitted technical studies to MARN suggesting improved waste management and compaction over the last two years, seeking a two-year extension. While MARN continues to analyze these studies and potential alternatives, such as a gradual closure, the court's order ensures municipalities can continue using the site for the time being.