The Future of Waste Management in Orihuela: New Ecoparks on the Horizon

As the municipality of Orihuela moves closer to launching its ecopark initiative, community leaders and residents have high hopes for the positive impact of these facilities on local waste management. With the pressing issue of littering and improper waste disposal, the construction of two ecoparks aims to provide an effective solution while promoting sustainability and responsible recycling practices.

Government Plans for Ecological Sustainability

According to a report by La Verdad, Francisco Cano, president of the regional waste consortium, has confirmed that the municipal government, led by the coalition of PP-Vox, is preparing to vote on the allocation of land for the new ecoparks in their upcoming government board meeting. The designated plots include:

• Puente Alto Industrial Area: This location will serve the urban center of Orihuela and nearby Bigastro.
• PAU 8-sur: Positioned close to the AP-7 bridge, this facility will cater specifically to the coastal community.

Addressing Community Concerns and Preferences

The original proposed site along the coastline in Lomas de Cabo Roig was dropped due to significant objections from local residents concerned about proximity to their homes. Prior to this decision, waste collection vehicles had operated in the area, making the community particularly sensitive to waste facility discussions.

With the ecoparks first introduced in October 2023, initial expectations had set an operational date for Easter 2024. That timeline has since shifted to a projected completion by summer 2025.

Optimizing Waste Disposal Practices

The ecoparks are designed for efficiency and community use, featuring:

• Type D Facilities: Each ecopark will include 10 to 15 waste containers.
• Identification System: Only registered residents can access the facilities by showing their ID, allowing efficient tracking of usage.

These ecoparks will accept a variety of materials for recycling, including:

• Cardboard
• Wood
• Garden waste
• Textiles
• Bulky items
• Aerosols
• Batteries
• Light bulbs
• Mattresses
• Cooking oil

Benefitting the Community and Promoting Engagement

Local expatriate communities are reportedly eager to engage with these sustainable practices and utilize the ecoparks for responsible waste disposal. Residents and community organizations, such as ‘Unidos por la Costa’, view the establishment of these facilities as pivotal in addressing ongoing issues related to the improper disposal of waste and bulk materials.

Furthermore, the municipal government will not incur additional expenses for this initiative, as funding has been secured through previous agreements. The city has already been sharing costs with the waste consortium, ensuring that the project is financial sound.

Ultimately, the new ecoparks in Orihuela are set to transform the landscape of waste management, making it more accessible and environmentally responsible for all residents.

Source: La Verdad