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The Minister of Science, Technology, and Environment (CITMA), Armando Rodríguez Batista, assured that the Cuban government does not incite or promote the open burning of solid waste, following citizens' complaints about the presence of smoke in several municipalities of Havana.
In a on Facebook titled "A Problem We Breathe," the official acknowledged that in recent days there have been "difficult moments" related to the air pollution in the capital.
According to the explanation, the ministry has received numerous concerns from the public, deputies, and public officials regarding the presence of smoke in various areas of the city, through social media, community spaces, and formal complaints.
Community concern about smoke in the neighborhoods
Neighbors from several municipalities in Havana have expressed their concern about the effects caused by the burning of waste on daily life.
Rodríguez Batista acknowledged that the presence of smoke "is not a minor issue," as it poses a threat to people's health and harms the environment.
"At CITMA, we want to be very clear: we do not encourage or promote the open-air burning of solid waste without the proper safety measures as a common practice," he stated.
The minister emphasized that this practice generates pollution, affects public health, and deteriorates the environment. He defended alternatives such as the circular economy, the reuse, and the recycling of raw materials contained in waste.
Fuel crisis and "complex situations"
The head of CITMA also linked the issue to the fuel shortages facing the country, which he attributed to the "energy blockade."
He pointed out that the current material limitations create "complex situations" that require in-depth analysis and immediate solutions, while emphasizing the need to balance public health, environmental protection, and economic conditions.
Rodríguez Batista acknowledged that the issue is not new, but he assured that under the current circumstances, it poses a greater challenge for the authorities.
The open burning of waste has been identified in recent years as a recurring practice in various parts of the capital, especially in contexts of waste accumulation and failures in systematic collection.
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