The Ajijic Recycling Center remains open and operational, despite ongoing administrative and electrical service issues, according to a press release issued this week by the board of directors of Ecología de Ribera Chapala, A.C. (ERC).
The update explains that since the formation of ERC in March 2023, the board has been working to secure a permanent lease for the Centro de Acopio facility, located at Carretera Chapala-Jocotepec 917 A on the western outskirts of Ajijic.
Although the Municipality has allowed use of the building, the absence of a formal lease has prevented the board from opening an electrical account with the Comisión Federal de Electricidad (Mexico’s electricity utility, CFE). As a result, following a recent audit, the agency cut off the center’s power. Without electricity, the plastic compactor—which is essential for reducing plastic volume by 75 percent and increasing revenue—cannot operate.
The ERC board, with support from concerned local residents, is currently negotiating with the Municipality and CFE to resolve these issues. Meanwhile, loyal volunteers, the backbone of the project, continue to manage daily operations Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Community support remains crucial. Local residents are encouraged to deliver rinsed and crushed recyclables to the Centro de Acopio and help spread the word on social media. For more information on the materials handled, visit the Reciclaje de Ribera Chapala Facebook page.