Senate approves urgent amendments to solid waste management law

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Senate has approved urgent modifications to Law No. 225-20, the General Law on Comprehensive Management and Processing of Solid Waste, in two consecutive readings. The initiative, presented by Senators Ramón Rogelio Genao of La Vega and Ginnette Bournigal of Puerto Plata, aims to enhance the regulatory framework for sustainable solid waste management.

Key changes include amendments to Articles 4, 11, 16, 17, 38, and 39, along with the addition of Paragraphs 21-bis, 26-bis, and 47-bis. These updates focus on maintaining environmental harmony, protecting natural resources, and addressing risks to the biosphere. Despite the law’s initial enactment in 2020, significant progress in reducing the environmental impact of solid waste has been limited, highlighting the need for improved implementation strategies.

The revised law underscores the importance of comprehensive waste management and final disposal as population growth and changing consumption patterns continue to increase waste generation. The amendments aim to ensure a healthy and ecologically balanced environment for current and future generations.