Nature Positive Cities Efforts to Advance the Tranistion Barranquilla 2025

3 Exemplary solutions Exemplary solution 3 Barranquilla Limpia y Linda programme Challenge The inadequate management of solid waste in Barranquilla was leading to serious environmental and socioeconomic challenges in the city. These challenges included the accumulation of waste in public spaces (62 critical points intervened by the city) and pollution of the air, water systems and soil. This was caused by poor waste segregation and improper waste disposal due to a lack of civic engagement and awareness of environmental issues. These challenges ultimately led to negative impacts on tourism, security and quality of life for Barranquilla’s residents. Solution To address this issue, the Office of Public Services under the City Management developed and implemented the Barranquilla Limpia y Linda programme, focusing on educational, urban, social and economic interventions. The key objectives of the initiative were to: 1 Promote the proper disposal of solid waste 2 Recover public areas affected by improper waste disposal 3 Encourage reduction, reuse and recycling through educational campaigns 4 Improve working conditions and dignity for waste pickers 5 Decrease the amount of waste reaching the landfill and critical points 6 Create appropriate infrastructure for waste use and treatment The strategy was coordinated with multiple local stakeholders, including government entities, the Triple A company, community organizations, educational institutions and the police. Impact Through a comprehensive strategy focused on education, community participation, and infrastructure improvements, the city made considerable strides in solid waste management and urban cleanliness. Key achievements of the initiative include: 1 Critical points recovery: Implementation of a patrol system that introduced 188 measures and recovered 62 critical points 2 Public road interventions: Remediation of almost 3km of road, with education for its maintenance and upkeep 3 Educational initiatives and special waste management: Collection of hundreds of tons of recyclable materials and waste from beaches and in waterbodies, using volunteer support 4 Infrastructure enhancements: Installation of 193 new public waste containers and new mechanical road sweepers to collect waste 5 Incentives and community engagement: Introduction of a waste exchange centre that collected 11,265kg of waste in exchange for monetary vouchers Image credit: Barranquilla City Hall Nature Positive: Cities’ Efforts to Advance the Transition – Barranquilla 38