Organic waste valorization through urban community gardens. Integration of social, ecological, and productive dimensions in the Coquimbo region, Chile
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https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7295-3554
Abstract
The low rate of organic waste recovery in Chile (<1%) contrasts with its high proportion in municipal solid waste (~58%), highlighting the need for decentralized management strategies. In this context, an integrated model for organic waste valorization through community urban gardens was evaluated in the Coquimbo Region, Chile, incorporating social, ecological, and productive dimensions. The intervention was conducted between 2023 and 2025, establishing 30 urban gardens within social organizations distributed from Caleta de Hornos to Los Vilos. A total of 160 training workshops were carried out, reaching 750 participants (85% women). In parallel, a participatory diagnosis was conducted with 17 organizations (n=141), alongside the implementation of a community composting system, compost quality assessment, and insect monitoring in the gardens. Results showed the valorization of more than 500 kg of organic waste. The compost exhibited a low C/N ratio (C/N=4.4; N=1.95%), indicative of an advanced mineralization stage, absence of pathogens and viable weed seeds, meeting agronomic quality standards. Entomological monitoring revealed low pest densities and the presence of beneficial insects, indicating functional ecological balance. At the social level, a high awareness of waste management was observed, although gaps in knowledge and access to technologies remain. The development of a technical manual contributed to standardizing practices and enhancing model replicability. It is concluded that integrating agroecology, community participation, and organic waste valorization represents an effective and scalable strategy to promote sustainable urban food systems.
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