Implementation of a Sustainable System for Plastic Waste Management in Santiago de los Caballeros: A Systemic Approach to the Conservation of the Yaque del Norte River Tributaries

This industrial engineering capstone project tackles the escalating issue of plastic waste in the streams and tributaries of the Yaque del Norte River, in the municipality of Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. Through systematic analysis and rigorous methodological design, a sustainable system for the collection and management of plastic waste is proposed, aiming to mitigate environmental impact and promote conservation practices. The study is structured into five chapters, beginning with a detailed problem statement, and followed by a theoretical framework that grounds the research in previous studies and key concepts. The methodological framework defines the population and sample, as well as the data collection and analysis techniques used to assess the current situation and project improvements. The market study and technical analysis provide a comprehensive view of the proposed product and service, profiling the consumer, analyzing demand and supply, and determining unsatisfied potential demand. Furthermore, an environmental impact study assesses the types of pollution generated and waste management strategies. The study culminates with an implementation proposal that includes a detailed action plan and a control plan to ensure the long-term sustainability of waste management. This work represents a significant effort in applying industrial and systems engineering to solve complex environmental problems, offering a replicable model for other communities facing similar challenges.