Evaluación de la Gestión Integral de desechos COVID-19, bajo el marco legal y las medidas adoptadas durante el estado de emergencia para la identificación de fortalezas y nudos críticos existentes en Ecuador

Abstract

was analyzed applying the descriptive method through a work compliance validation matrix of generators and operators for an environmentally adequate management within the collection, transport, disposal and final disposal of COVID-19 waste. The management of 516.62 tons of waste from 25 type 3 generators located in 17 provinces and 644 tons of waste from 1297 type 2 generators located in 20 provinces was quantified and the waste was eliminated through autoclaving and incineration processes based on the measures established during the health emergency. There was no information on the management of COVID-19 waste from type 1 generators, since they were handled as common waste and delivered to the GADMs. From the 80 counties with information from the control and monitoring inspections carried out by the MAATE, only 10 of them have security cells with the appropriate technical conditions for the final disposal of sanitary waste. Finally, one of the weaknesses found at a national level during the development of this evaluation was the lack of information from operators and generators for the National Environmental Authority (AAN) on the management of COVID-19 waste during the state of emergency. One of the strengths is the existence of a legal framework for the internal management of sanitary waste. It is recommended to manage and carry out campaigns for the proper management and final disposal of COVID-19 waste.