Knowledge management in the comprehensive management of urban solid waste

Abstract

This research addressed the problem of urban solid waste management in Querétaro, Mexico. This causes health, environmental, and sustainability problems, as evidenced by the recent rains that hit the city of Querétaro, Mexico. Likewise, it is important to manage the empirical knowledge of waste collectors (scavengers). As an alternative solution to these circumstances, the processes carried out must be understood and described. A first approach was taken to identify the processes carried out by waste collectors, as these could be used in industries to professionalize the process and make it economically attractive. To carry out the research, the exploratory qualitative method was used through informal interviews with waste collectors. Qualitative observation allowed for observation and note-taking of their activities. Furthermore, documentary research contributed to understanding the state of the art. The results revealed interesting findings. For example, knowledge is transmitted informally, the processes they develop are rudimentary, and the specific costs of the collected waste are not identified.