More than 40% of all garbage generated in Panama is deposited in the Cerro Patacón landfill. In less than 90 days, it has been "intentionally" set on fire four times, according to Panamanian authorities.
The smoke, ashes and bad odors from burning garbage have spread for hundreds of kilometers. An environmental and health disaster that seems to be on hold due to the lack of interest of the authorities, says environmentalist Raisa Banfield. In March 2023, the Urbalia company - which managed the landfill - ran out of contract.