Technological Innovation and Circular Economy

Inefficient municipal solid waste management represents a significant obstacle on the transition towards a circular economy in densely populated urban environments, such as the district of San Juan de Lurigancho, Lima, Peru. This study presents the implementation of advanced technologies, specifically smart containers integrated with sensors and real-time monitoring systems, to optimize waste collection. This resulted in decrements in operating costs and unrecycled waste by 20% and 27%, respectively, whilst increasing citizen engagement by 18% regarding segregation and recycling activities, highlighting positive changes in community behavior. However, the present technological infrastructure, technical training and necessary funds are all insufficient, which presents limitations on the deployment and scalability of these measures. This study thusly indicates the necessity to elaborate public policies, environmental education and engagement strategies to guarantee system stability. These findings both provide a replicable model to address these issues and offer a roadmap for the integration of smart technologies in sustainable city planning, bridging technological innovation and sustainability.