The municipality of Cuenca, through its public enterprise EMAC EP, has launched an ambitious programme aimed at improving the performance and sustainability of its solid waste management system. This transformative project combines the expansion of disposal capacity, the development of new recycling streams, the improvement of existing infrastructure and the strengthening of environmental awareness initiatives.

The feasibility study, funded by the AFD, assessed the programme’s relevance and its technical, environmental, social and financial viability, whilst defining an investment roadmap to support the sector’s transformation. The approach adopted covered the entire waste management chain, from collection through to recovery and final treatment, whilst taking into account climate, environmental, social and gender issues.

Type of services provided

• Institutional, regulatory and organisational assessment of the waste sector.

• Technical, financial, environmental and social feasibility studies.
• Identification of investment needs and prioritisation of waste management and recovery infrastructure.
• Assessment of treatment, recycling and circular economy solutions.
• Analysis of the programme’s economic and financial viability (CAPEX/OPEX).
• Conducting environmental, climate and social studies.
• Gender analysis and development of a dedicated action plan.
• Development of the operational roadmap and implementation timetable.
• Support for project governance, drafting of procedures and a communication plan.