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The Lerma River, one of the most polluted rivers in Mexico, faces a severe environmental crisis due to the annual discharge of more than 425 million m³ of industrial and domestic wastewater. The first 15 kilometers of the river are considered biologically dead. In this context, the community of Santa Cruz Atizapan , located just 5 km from the rivers source, relies heavily on the textile industry particularly denim washing which represents a major source of pollution.
In the area, at least 18 laundries discharge untreated wastewater containing complex chemical mixtures, notably indigo dye, an aromatic compound that is highly resistant to environmental degradation. These pollutants reduce light penetration, deplete dissolved oxygen, and alter the pH of the water, creating toxic conditions that severely impact biodiversity and human health. Although the community is aware of these environmental effects, economic dependence on the textile sector and the high cost of conventional treatment methods limit the adoption of sustainable solutions.
To address this issue, the project proposes the implementation of a scalable biofiltration system based on agro-industrial waste, which serves as a support medium for a fungal consortium capable of adsorbing and degrading indigo dye. The system has demonstrated a removal efficiency of 80% to 95% and can operate continuously. Additionally, it promotes a circular economy by reusing agricultural waste.
Currently, a pilot-scale prototype is operating in a local laundry, with a treatment capacity of 2,000 liters per day. The project is in the process of scaling up and optimizing performance to meet regulatory standards for BOD and COD. The estimated cost of implementation ranges from $30,000 to $90,000 pesos, depending on the size of the facility.
The implementation model involves a collaborative approach: laundry owners will cover 33% of installation costs and maintenance, the government will contribute 34% installation and along with technical training, and academic institutions such as UAM-Lerma will continue to support research, optimization, and community engagement and 33% Rotary for Installation.
This initiative aims not only to mitigate environmental damage but also to preserve the economic stability of more than 750 direct jobs and generate indirect social benefits for approximately 8,000 residents in the region. The project will be further strengthened through the Synergy for Impact fund, enabling its expansion and long-term sustainability.
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