Formulación de un plan de manejo integral de residuos sólidos para empresas cliente R&R KELAB S.A.S

Abstract

During this internship, the main objective was to explore and identify, in accordance with the guidelines of the 2018 resolution on the use of packaging and containers, how organizations manage their responsibility for the disposal of the waste generated by these materials. The internship sought to encourage companies to join a collective management plan that promotes shared responsibility and commitment regarding the waste they generate, as well as awareness raising within organizations and among final consumers. This approach aims to support proper waste collection by ensuring that both companies and consumers have basic knowledge of appropriate disposal practices. The internship was carried out within the framework of research and awareness projects focused on the disposal of packaging and containers in the food industry, with particular emphasis on extended producer responsibility and Resolution 1407 of 2018. Additionally, the project involved the identification of alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly in terms of decomposition and environmental impact when compared to conventional plastics. The work aimed to provide practical and academic inputs for companies such as Productos Alimenticios El Carriel S.A.S., Drycol S.A.S., and Pamis Importadora S.A.S. through comparative benchmarking studies designed to identify national and international best practices in waste management and the implementation of sustainable packaging. The process was developed using a documentary analysis methodology, the application of environmental impact assessment matrices, and the creation of support tools such as educational guides on integrated solid waste management and circular economy principles. These materials were designed to raise awareness among employees and consumers. This approach made it possible not only to assess the current sustainability status of each company, but also to propose strategies tailored to their specific contexts. These strategies included the adoption of bioplastics, the strengthening of post-consumer recycling initiatives, and the promotion of biodegradable or returnable packaging, taking into account the companies’ operating environments and the availability of suitable material suppliers. The introduction aims to provide a concise and comprehensive overview of all aspects of the internship, presenting a clear and structured approach focused on the internship topic, its relevance, and the rationale behind the selected methodology. It briefly outlines the motivations for undertaking the internship, the methods applied, the main limitations encountered, and the key results obtained. Among the main limitations identified was the difficulty in accessing complete information on internal waste management processes, which limited the ability to directly compare certain indicators with international best practices. Despite this, the results showed that the companies analyzed have significant potential to improve their environmental practices. In particular, the feasibility of incorporating alternatives such as PLA packaging and corrugated cardboard was highlighted, along with the need to strengthen circular economy strategies and environmental communication. In summary, the internship successfully integrated applied research with awareness raising activities, contributing to the development of sustainable proposals that promote business competitiveness while simultaneously reducing the environmental impact of the packaging industry in Colombia.