NOM-161-SEMARNAT-2011: Comprehensive Waste Management Regulations in Mexico

NOM-161-SEMARNAT-2011: A Comprehensive Guide on Classifying and Managing Specialized Waste

The National Commission for Environmental Protection (CONAMA), through the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), has established the Norma Oficial Mexicana (NOM)-161-SEMARNAT-2011. This document sets out the criteria for classifying specialized waste and determines which types of waste require special management plans. It also covers the procedures for their inclusion or exclusion from these plans, along with the elements and processes involved in creating specialized waste management plans.

As per the normative, there are two categories of individuals who must develop specific waste management plans: those responsible for handling large quantities of specialized waste (over 10 metric tons annually) and those dealing with solid urban waste in similar volumes. Additionally, any businesses that produce specialized waste as part of their operations, such as importers, exporters, commercializers, distributors, and others generating over 10 metric tons of waste per year, must also follow the guidelines set forth in this regulation.

The NOM-161-SEMARNAT-2011 applies to all states and municipalities, ensuring uniformity in managing specialized waste across Mexico. Some key features of the plan include:

1. Individuals: The plans must contain only general information, including details on how to apply the plan and the roles of various stakeholders. For collective efforts, there is a need to identify each participant's involvement, communication strategies to consumers, and the means to manage, value, or accumulate specialized waste.

2. Collaborative Approach: The plan must promote shared responsibility and collaboration among stakeholders at different stages of the value chain. This includes identifying key actors, defining their roles, and facilitating coordination between them to ensure effective waste management practices.

3. Inclusive Criteria: The norm establishes specific criteria for determining which residues qualify as specialized waste, including a list of such wastes, procedures for inclusion or exclusion from the list, and guidelines for formulating specialized waste management plans.

4. Compliance with Legislation: Mexican law dictates that any specialized waste generated be subjected to appropriate regulations or standards for its proper disposal and safe handling. Residuals not in compliance with these requirements are sent to unauthorized disposal sites, posing risks to public health and the environment.

The NOM-161-SEMARNAT-2011 aims to provide a comprehensive framework for managing specialized waste through collaborative efforts between various entities involved in production, consumption, transportation, treatment, and disposal of these materials. By following this standard, Mexico has taken steps towards reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable waste management practices.