\ud83c\udf0d In 2025, industrial waste management in Chile and the region progressed towards greater recovery, traceability, and circularity, driven by the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, growing environmental awareness among companies, and the adoption of innovative technological solutions. Looking ahead to 2026, these trends are consolidating and are projected as key drivers that will define how industries and waste managers address environmental and production challenges.
At Hidronor we anticipate that the management of this type of waste will evolve strongly this year, guided by trends that integrate sustainability, digitalization and the circular economy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Digital traceability and transparency in waste management
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The demand for reliable data and real-time tracking will drive digital solutions that allow waste to be tracked from its origin to its recovery management and final disposal, strengthening regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
2. Expansion of energy recovery and generation of alternative fuels<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the increased demand for Refuse-Derived Fuels (RDF), the focus will be on increasing their production for use in environmentally authorized cement kilns as a significant energy source. This allows for the valorization of waste through safe co-processing, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and contributing to a more sustainable and efficient energy mix aligned with the principles of the circular economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Circular economy integrated into the production chain
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Industrial waste will begin to be incorporated as technical inputs in new production processes, closing cycles and reducing the extraction of natural resources.
4. Digitalization and cybersecurity in environmental management
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The intensive use of digital platforms will require greater data protection and control systems associated with waste management, especially in industries with critical operations.
5. Ecodesign and innovation for circularity
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