Ajijic’s nascent trash separation and recycling program is under way as of this week, with the first round of plastic and metal refuse pickup starting Saturday, November 3.

The initiative led by Chapala Ecology Director José Jaime will begin with the use of a regular garbage truck following normal routes inside the village, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., to haul away mixed wastes, followed by another truck that will collect only specified recyclable items. Another truck will be dispatched to collect separated trash in the neighborhoods of Las Salvias, Villa Nova and Rancho del Oro.

Householders are urged to store rinsed out recyclable plastic and metal items throughout the week, setting them out at curbside on Saturdays in trash cans or cardboard boxes, preferably avoiding the use of plastic bags.

Jaime reminds residents that the program will be expanded and modified gradually in the future based on experiences during the kickoff phase. He stresses that patience, perseverance and participation are the keywords to success for the model that will be applied elsewhere in the municipality.   

Residents of gated condo communities that receive service from the GIRRSA trash collection company should follow arrangements made between their homeowner associations, the outfit and the Ecology office.

Questions about the Ajijic pilot project may be directed to town administrator Juan Ramón Flores at the Delegación office opposite the plaza. Call (376) 766-1760 or write to Jaime via e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..