In a context where environmental and social challenges call for an urgent and structural response, the New Granada Military University (UMNG) demonstrates that it is possible to implement a sustainable management model from the public sector, leading it to achieve a transcendental accomplishment by becoming a the first public university in Colombia to be certified in the Zero Waste Management System..
This recognition, awarded by Icontec in the Gold Categoryis a reflection of its environmental commitment and its institutional vision oriented towards sustainability, innovation and educational transformation.
A certification that represents more than an environmental achievement
The certification ceremony took place on January 30, 2025with the participation of the Global Zero Waste team, represented by Diego RomeroTechnical Director, and Alberto DiazDirector of Certification. This recognition was granted together with the renewal of other important certifications in the following areas Quality Management, Environmental Management and Occupational Safety and Health.
This set of certifications demonstrates UMNG's comprehensive approach, which is not limited to waste management, but encompasses its entire institutional management model under principles of continuous improvement, health, efficiency and care for the environment.
Recognition for leadership that transforms
Global Zero Waste congratulates the entire UMNG community, from students, faculty, administrative staff, contractors and suppliers, and especially the management team, whose leadership and strategic vision were essential to achieve this goal:
Brigadier General (R) Arnulfo Traslaviña SáchicaVice Rector General.
Colonel, Leonardo Fabio Castillo GarcíaHead of Heritage Protection Office.
Liliana PovedaEnvironmental Leader.
Mayra Alejandra Aldana Perez, Environmental Engineer OPS.
Thanks to its commitment and articulated work, UMNG today is consolidated as an educational institution that forms environmentally conscious citizens with the capacity to lead transformation processes in their territories.
Public education with a sustainable vision
At Global Zero Waste We are deeply honored to have been a part of this process. The experience of the New Granada Military University demonstrates that sustainability is built in communitywith will, knowledge and articulation between sectors.
This is not only a point of arrival, but also a point of new starting point towards a university that is more conscious, regenerative and connected to the challenges of our time.
We will continue to support institutions that, like UMNG, believe in the possibility of building a country with less waste, more environmental education and institutional management that is more consistent with the principles of the circular economy.
Because sustainability is not a utopia, but an achievable reality when there is leadership, planning and willingness to change!
