Abstract

OLEAS-OROZCO, Jose; CABEZAS RAMOS, Renato  and  ESCOBAR CHIRIBOGA, Publio. Waste in the production processes of the graphic arts industry in large format printing. The case of Riobamba, Ecuador. Zincografía [online]. 2022, vol.6, n.11, pp.62-78.  Epub May 23, 2022. ISSN 2448-8437.  https://doi.org/10.32870/zcr.v6i11.126.

Production processes in the graphic arts industry are varied, as are the waste they produce. In recent years, large and medium-sized cities in the Ecuadorian scenario have seen considerable growth in this industry, specifically in the form of large format printing plotters. This growth has involved not only increased production in graphic arts services, but also an environmental impact, since, due to its characteristics, it generates various types of waste. This study analyzes the production processes of the printing centers and the inorganic and chemical residues that result from their activity. The research carried out is of an exploratory level, and was carried out through a sampling of type cases in four large-format printers in the city of Riobamba, between the months of February and April 2021. In the same way, the non participant observation technique was used. participant to objectively document the production processes and identify the stages of waste generation. From the qualitative approach, through semi-structured interviews, the owners and operators of the printing centers were consulted about the management and treatment of the waste produced. In the results, it was possible to contrast data that suggest gaps in the regulations and the need for actions to mitigate the impact of these wastes.

Keywords : Riobamba; Ecuador; waste treatment; graphic industry; raw material; sustainability.

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