Using a desire-based framework to find value in glass waste: a case study of glass cullet for rain gardens in the Caño Martín Peña

Devora Cigarroa, Karen Ruby

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Using a desire-based framework to find value in glass waste: a case study of glass cullet for rain gardens in the Caño Martín Peña

Devora Cigarroa, Karen Ruby

Advisor

Reddy, Elizabeth
O'Neill Carrillo, Efraín

Date Issued

2024

Abstract

A research study was conducted to understand the cultural, political, economic, and logistical issues that inform the current state of waste management in Puerto Rico and to evaluate a glass recycling proposal. Developed in collaboration with the ENLACE Project Corporation, this study contributes to the continuous assessment of a community-centered glass recycling initiative to support circular economic activity in the Caño Martin Peña communities. Waste management is a critical issue on the island; increased waste generation and limited space to expand waste management infrastructure, such as landfills, create a hazardous environment for the surrounding ecosystem and communities. Large-scale glass recycling efforts do not exist in Puerto Rico because there are limited end-use markets. To create contextualized solutions that address the challenges facing people in Puerto Rico when managing waste, it is important to address issues like politics and economics that inform recycling, poor social perceptions of recycling, and explore creative uses for glass cullet. This study draws on Eve Tuck’s notion of desire-based research to consider the current state of waste management in Puerto Rico and assesses a proposal to use recycled glass as a drainage medium for rain gardens. It sets both of these in the context of people’s desire to live good lives amid the challenges that impact waste management and their capacity to address these struggles. Through this approach, the study found that despite the issues that currently discourage glass recycling, there is an interest in diverting glass waste from landfills through open-loop recycling operations. The study concludes that while creative uses of glass cullet might not provide the most efficient way of putting glass waste to use, these activities are still worthwhile because they are locally appropriate and reflect a desire and motivation to find value in glass waste and increase recycling.

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Using a desire-based framework to find value in glass waste: a case study of glass cullet for rain gardens in the Caño Martín Peña

Devora Cigarroa, Karen Ruby

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