Sustainable Model for the Management and Valorization of Solid Waste through Recycling Strategies at the University of Guayaquil
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Integrated solid waste management has become a strategic component for environmental sustainability in higher education institutions by optimizing resource use, reducing environmental impacts, and strengthening university social responsibility. At the University of Guayaquil, the increasing generation of recyclable waste and limitations in waste separation, recovery, and valorization processes reveal the need for sustainable management models based on circular economy principles. This study aimed to design a sustainable model for solid waste management and valorization through recycling strategies to strengthen institutional environmental management. A mixed-methods approach with a non-experimental, descriptive-propositional, and cross-sectional design was adopted. Theoretical methods included analysis-synthesis, systemic approach, and inductive-deductive reasoning, while empirical techniques comprised document analysis, direct observation, semi-structured interviews, and surveys administered to students, faculty members, and administrative staff. Diagnostic findings revealed deficiencies in waste segregation at the source, limited environmental awareness, lack of waste valorization indicators, and weak coordination with authorized recycling managers. Based on these findings, a sustainable management model grounded in circular economy principles, recyclable material recovery, environmental education, and active university community participation is proposed. The model integrates source separation, selective collection, material recovery, waste valorization, and environmental performance monitoring. It is concluded that the proposed model will improve institutional environmental management efficiency, reduce landfill disposal, strengthen environmental culture, and generate environmental, social, and economic benefits, providing a replicable framework for higher education institutions.
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