Advancing the Application of a Multidimensional Sustainable Urban Waste Management Model in a Circular Economy in Mexico City

Abstract

The increase in global municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, with a significant portion being improperly managed, has resulted in detrimental socio-ecological effects. This paper addresses the challenge of implementing effective waste management practices for achieving sustainability, particularly in urban areas where the majority of global waste is generated. It emphasizes the need for a multidimensional, multiscale, and long-term approach that surpasses local solutions and linear strategies. The approach recognizes the broader impacts of waste management beyond city boundaries and promotes circularity by incorporating waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and proper disposal practices. Through an analysis of the literature on waste from 1992 to 2022, this paper aims to identify the key concepts, propose solutions, and explore sustainable waste management scenarios. This paper introduces the m-SWM4Cities model for sustainable waste management in urban areas, highlighting its methodology and application in Mexico City (mD-SWM4CDMX). The models presented in this paper incorporate essential elements and interactions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the transition to sustainable waste management. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring waste management indicators and offer insights into the waste system of Mexico City. The m-SWM4Cities model can be adapted to address specific city contexts and thus serves as a valuable tool for assessing and improving waste management practices.