Innovation in High Andean Lagoon Remediation: Development and Evaluation of a Solid Waste Collection Bin with a Nanobubble System in Pucush Uclo, Peru

This study developed and evaluated an innovative Solid Waste Collection System integrating Venturi nanobubble technology, implemented in Pucush Uclo Lagoon (Peru, 3,232 masl). Through a 16-week quasi-experimental design comparing conventional (A) and nanobubble-enhanced (B) configurations, the Venturi system generated highly stable nanobubbles (178 ± 23 nm diameter, 1.4 × 108 bubbles/mL, -32.7 mV zeta potential). Key findings revealed that configuration B achieved significantly superior collection efficiency (94.2% vs 76.8%), with exceptional performance for small waste (<5 cm) showing 37.2% relative improvement. The system simultaneously enhanced water quality through 46.3% dissolved oxygen increase (5.4 to 7.9 mg/L) and substantial pollutant reductions: 53.9% BOD5, 37.9% COD, 64.3% total susUSDded solids, and 61.6% turbidity. Strong correlations were identified between nanobubble concentration and dissolved oxygen (r=0.89) and between oxygen levels and BOD reduction (r=-0.85). Economic analysis demonstrated operational cost-effectiveness at $0.045 USD/m², representing 60% savings compared to conventional methods. This dual-approach system validates an innovative paradigm combining physical waste collection with biochemical water enhancement through targeted oxygenation. The technology offers a scalable, cost-effective solution particularly suitable for high-altitude aquatic ecosystems with limited self-purification capacity. Results demonstrate that nanobubble integration significantly enhances collection efficiency while simultaneously addressing water quality degradation, providing a comprehensive remediation strategy for contaminated water bodies in challenging environmental conditions.