The presence of what seemed to be **blood on the local waterfront**, specifically in the **meatpacking area**, has raised alarm among the neighbors and the recreational community of the waterfront.
The photograph taken by Edgardo Cardenas on Monday reveals the persistence of a significant **environmental problem** in **Río Gallegos** related to the management of effluents and [organic waste from the meatpacking plants](https://noticiasambientales.com/compromiso-ambiental/presentan-un-sistema-que-convierte-residuos-organicos-en-compost-comercializable/).
Historical Environmental Issues in Río Gallegos
For years, the direct discharge of effluents with blood and the disposal of organic waste in the **open-air landfill** have posed a critical challenge.
In 2015, the Environmental State Secretariat of the province (SEA) began actions to regulate the operations of the meatpacking plants, incorporating new technologies and more efficient practices.
Currently, the position of the head of the Environmental State Secretariat of Santa Cruz is vacant after the departure of Sebastián Giorgion, adding uncertainty to environmental management.
Evolution in Effluent Management (2015-2020)
During ex-governor Alicia Kirchner’s administration, measures were implemented to [improve the control of effluents](https://noticiasambientales.com/residuos/graves-irregularidades-en-un-deposito-clandestino-en-santa-fe-de-envases-de-fitosanitarios/).
Between 2017 and 2020, the meatpacking plants were required to adjust their practices to current regulations, collect blood separately, and establish monitoring procedures.
Advances in Environmental Management
By the end of Kirchner’s administration, companies were working on the construction of **effluent treatment plants** and the valorization of by-products. Additionally, the need to expand the pumping capacity of the effluent treatment plant in Río Gallegos was identified.
Infrastructure and Technology Improvements
Local meatpacking representatives confirmed to the TiempoSur portal the improvements in infrastructure and technology for **responsible environmental practices**.
Regarding the recent incident on the local waterfront, the Montecarlo company clarified that the waste does not come from its plant. They highlighted the construction of a secondary effluent treatment plant started in 2020, which complies with the parameters established in the **Water Law** and is not connected to the estuary drains.
So far, there has been no response from the provincial environmental department.
Do you already know our YouTube channel? Subscribe!
