From [HERE] Puerto Rico is grappling with a pressing trash problem that’s not just a visual blight, but a serious threat to its stunning landscapes, marine life, and the environment. The urgency of this crisis is underscored by its far-reaching impacts on health, tourism, and the economy. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this crisis, its profound effects on Puerto Rico, and the ongoing efforts to restore the island to its former glory. 

Trash Problem Overview

The Puerto Rico trash problem has been growing for decades. With a population of around 3.2 million, the island generates about 3.7 million tons of waste yearly. Despite being small, the island’s landfills are full and there’s no proper recycling infrastructure. This trash crisis affects everything from health to the economy so solutions are crucial for Puerto Rico’s future.

Why So Much Trash in Puerto Rico?

Here are the main reasons:

1. Limited Landfill Space: Puerto Rico’s landfills have been full for years and many are already at capacity.

2. No Recycling Programs: Recycling is scarce and only 10% of waste is recycled on the island.

3. High Consumption: Like everywhere else, Puerto Rico has a high consumption of goods, plastic, and single-use items.

4. Tourism: Tourism brings millions of visitors to the island every year and more trash.

5. Weak Waste Management Infrastructure: Hurricanes and other natural disasters have weakened the waste infrastructure making cleanup efforts harder.

These two factors create a cycle of waste accumulation and put a lot of pressure on the environment and the people of Puerto Rico. [MORE]