For years, Sardinal faced a challenge that went beyond waste accumulation. The community lacked municipal collection services for both recyclable and regular waste, forcing residents to seek private alternatives to address this need.Limited waste sorting and recycling practices also posed a risk to the natural environment, particularly to the area's underground water reserves, where water protection is essential.In response, a group of residents decided to organize and turn this challenge into an opportunity: building a community with greater awareness of waste management and the collective capacity to take action to protect its territory.

Over approximately one year, the project implemented nine campaigns to recover recyclable materials, complemented by training sessions, community cleanups, and educational activities for different audiences.More than 500 people and businesses have participated in training sessions focused on waste management, recycling, and composting.Activities have also reached students at Jorge Borbón Castro School and participants in the CINDEA adult education program, engaging new generations in learning environmentally responsible practices.The project has also embraced creativity and material reuse.Workshops focused on transforming textiles and other recyclable materials into bags and new products, along with community activities and the recent inauguration of the Bottle Cap Heart installation, have turned environmental education into engaging, hands-on experiences for children and adults alike.The most tangible result so far: 8,333 kilograms of recyclable materials recovered.