Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – The city of Puerto Vallarta is taking a major step towards sustainability with the inauguration of a PET Collection Center by the Nayar Bottling Group and PetStar. This initiative, backed by Mayor Luis Munguía, emphasizes the city’s commitment to environmental protection while creating economic opportunities for local families.
Located in Las Juntas, the new facility is designed to process over 58 million plastic bottles annually. This effort not only supports waste collectors but also drives the growth of more than 50 small and medium-sized businesses involved in recycling. The center is expected to generate over 1,000 indirect jobs, providing critical income for those in the waste collection sector.
Speaking at the event, Terrance Vincent O’halloran Lepe, Deputy Director of Animal Welfare, applauded the project on behalf of the mayor. “This center reflects our shared goal of environmental stewardship while contributing to the livelihoods of many people in our community,” he said.
Ricardo Alberto Leyba Sigala, General Manager of Nayar Bottling Group, highlighted the scale of the initiative. “This facility is part of a national system that aligns with PetStar’s vision of zero waste. It represents the largest recycling plant of its kind globally.”
The recycling process involves collecting plastic bottles from various points, compacting them at the Las Juntas center, and then transporting them to Guadalajara for sorting and classification. From there, plastics are sent to Toluca for chemical processing, transforming them into reusable, food-grade materials.
Carlos Mendieta, Director of Public Affairs at PetStar, emphasized the importance of this center in the western region of Mexico, describing it as a key part of a globally leading recycling network.
Mayor Munguía, in a message to the Coca-Cola Nayar Bottling Group and PetStar, underscored the broader benefits of the initiative. “This project demonstrates that a circular economy is achievable. It benefits not just our people but also our rivers, beaches, and marine life, from birds to whales,” he said.
With this groundbreaking project, Puerto Vallarta continues to set an example for sustainable development, proving that economic growth and environmental care can go hand in hand.
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