Cuenca Expands Waste Management Infrastructure: International Call for Expertise Announced

CUENCA, AZUAY – July 21, 2025 – The Municipal Public Waste Management Company of Cuenca (EMAC EP) has made an important announcement, signaling a significant step forward in the city's sustainable development. EMAC EP has opened an international call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the "Supervision of Works for the Expansion of the South Phase of the Cuenca City Landfill." This initiative is particularly relevant for the expat community, as it directly impacts the environmental quality and long-term sustainability of the city we call home.

This open call invites consulting firms, professional associations, and technical and environmental sector stakeholders to submit their interest. The process aims to create a shortlist of qualified entities to oversee the expansion, a critical component of Cuenca's Solid Waste Management Improvement Program. The program itself is backed by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), an international financing institution, and adheres to its stringent international procurement standards.

The South Phase expansion is described as "strategic infrastructure to ensure the continuity of waste disposal services in the city and canton." It directly addresses Cuenca's ongoing population growth and aligns with principles of environmental and social sustainability, as well as efficiency in public service management.

Consulting offices are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest. Submissions must be made physically by 11:00 AM (Ecuador time) on August 6, 2025, to the following address:

Empresa Pública Municipal de Aseo de Cuenca – EMAC EP Office Name: Unidad de Gestión de Proyecto UGP - AFD Attention: Mgs. María Caridad Vázquez – General Manager of EMAC Address: Av. Tres de Noviembre 21-176 y Juan Pablo I. Cuenca, Ecuador Phone: (+593) – 07 – 4131 801 Email: ugpafd@emac.gob.ec

Further comprehensive information is available on EMAC EP's website, social media channels, and directly via the AFD tender link: https://licitaciones-afd.dgmarket.com/tender/96188932.

EMAC EP highlights this as "a great opportunity for national and international firms to get involved in a strategic project for Cuenca."

This landfill expansion is part of the larger Pichacay Human and Environmental Development Complex, a significant site located in the Santa Ana parish, 21 km from Cuenca. Spanning 123 hectares, this complex is central to Cuenca's integrated waste management strategy, housing not only the Landfill but also a Sterilization Plant and an Electricity Generation Plant. This holistic approach demonstrates Cuenca's commitment to transforming waste into resources and energy, aligning with circular economy principles.

EMAC EP positions itself as a forward-thinking regional leader, dedicated to making Cuenca a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment. The organization actively collaborates with the community, focusing on efficient solid waste management and green area upkeep, while adhering to legal obligations and commitments for a more sustainable future.

The evaluation of the Expressions of Interest will be based on the applicant's demonstrated experience, focusing on:

• Contract Magnitude: The financial scope and size of previous contracts.

• Nature of Services: Specific experience in consulting or supervision of works.

• Technical Aspects: Proven expertise in:

  • Landfills

  • Large-scale earthworks (excavations, fillings, shaping, stabilization, etc.)

  • Waterproofing infrastructure

  • Construction or improvement of road infrastructure

  • Large-scale environmental processes

This international call underscores Cuenca's proactive approach to managing its urban growth and environmental impact. For expats who chose Cuenca for its quality of life and natural beauty, this investment in sustainable infrastructure reinforces the city's long-term appeal and commitment to a clean future.