The Ministry of Housing, Construction and Sanitation announced on May 2 that it is promoting the reuse of sludge generated in wastewater treatment plants, with a goal to repurpose 70 percent by 2026. The ministry said this initiative will turn waste into useful resources, reduce pollution, and improve living conditions for families by creating healthier and more sustainable environments.
Through Sedapal, the ministry is consolidating a circular economy model that converts waste into inputs for agriculture and maintenance of green spaces. This approach not only protects the environment but also creates economic opportunities and reduces costs in waste management, directly benefiting communities and municipalities.
“Promoting the circular economy in sanitation allows us to transform waste into opportunities and generate concrete benefits for the population and the environment,” officials from the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Sanitation said.
More than 2,800 tons of sludge have already been reused as part of this strategy. Notable progress has been made at treatment plants in San Bartolo and Pachacútec with 1,000 tons each; Ancón has processed 500 tons; Manchay has handled another 300 tons. These results show an efficient system that can be replicated elsewhere.
The recovered material is suitable for irrigating parks, gardens, and long-stem crops. Its use improves soil quality while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers—leading to more sustainable food production as well as lower costs for farmers and local governments.
Currently, this initiative operates at eighteen wastewater treatment plants across Lima—especially those using centrifugal decantation technology—including Puente Piedra, Santa Clara, Manchay, San Antonio de Carapongo, and Pachacútec. The policy aims to reduce carbon footprints while preventing environmental contamination.
In addition to sludge reuse efforts described above,
the process enables production of organic compost along with other byproducts such as dried biosolids or pellets used in agricultural activities or soil remediation projects—helping further decrease synthetic fertilizer usage while generating environmental,
social,
and economic value nationwide.
The Ministry contributes to social wellbeing by improving access to housing and basic services while supporting sustainable territorial development according to its official website. Its central headquarters are located in San Isidro,
Lima,
alongside regional Centers of Citizen Attention throughout Peru as noted on its website.
It operates autonomously within Peru’s Executive Branch under Law No.27779 according to official information.
The Ministry develops policies promoting sustainable access not only to housing but also construction,
water,
sanitation,
and urban development for all Peruvians.
Nationwide initiatives are supported through its headquarters as well as regional centers serving communities across Peru.
Policies issued aim at advancing sustainability in housing provision,
basic water supply management,
and related fields according to its official website.
