In the heart of the special district of Barrancabermeja, one company has managed to position itself not only as a public service operator, but also as a true ally of the community. This company is Veolia, which is dedicated to comprehensive solid waste management and has gone beyond urban cleaning to focus on strengthening the social fabric and environmental commitment.
More than 60,000 tonnes managed responsibly
During the first quarter of 2025, Veolia managed more than 13,300 tonnes of waste in the district, adding to the 60,000 tonnes it handles on average each year. This waste is collected, disposed of and treated at the San Silvestre Smart Ecological Management Centre, located 20 kilometres from the urban area, a facility that has an environmental licence and strictly complies with current regulations.
The figures reflect the magnitude of Veolia's work: more than 50,000 kilometres of roads and public spaces have been swept and cleaned, 280,000 square metres of green areas have been mowed, and more than 8,000 trees have been pruned. In addition, 1,200 cubic metres of common areas have been washed and disinfected, ensuring healthier environments for residents.
The direct impact on neighbourhoods
This effort has not gone unnoticed by community leaders. Leonardo Sarabia, president of the Community Action Board of the 9 de Agosto settlement in commune 7, highlights Veolia's constant support for his community's initiatives. "They are always attentive to the leaders' calls. They have supported us in activities with children, providing equipment in December and actively participating in events that strengthen the bond between the company and the community," says Sarabia.
Beyond the material, he highlights the support for training and strengthening community leadership. ‘It is the only public service company that recognises and trains leaders. That motivates us to continue working for our sectors,’ he says gratefully.
Santa Isabel: cleanliness and civic culture
In the Santa Isabel neighbourhood, second stage, located in commune 3, Jorge Durango, president of the JAC, also has words of gratitude. ‘Veolia has helped us with tree pruning, cleaning entrances and waste collection days every six months,’ he explains. According to the leader, these actions not only benefit the environment, but also raise awareness among residents. ‘Thanks to these days, we prevent people from throwing rubbish in the wetland or at the entrance to the neighbourhood.’ Durango also emphasises civic culture: ‘We Barranquillos suffer from a lack of culture, but Veolia insists with its team to keep the city clean. What is missing is a greater sense of belonging on the part of the community,’ he points out
In La Paz, an alliance based on listening
Another valuable testimony comes from Fernando Sarabia Salas, president of the La Paz neighbourhood community association, who highlights the constant communication with Veolia. ‘We have always had a channel for listening, and that has been fundamental in improving the waste collection service,’ he says. The company has also supported community events such as bingo games and brigades for the disposal of unusable items.
Sarabia acknowledges that these actions help prevent the collapse of the neighbourhood's drains and pipes, and emphasises the willingness of the Veolia team to respond to their requests. ‘They have given us a timely and personalised response. I appreciate their commitment to our community and the approach of their staff, who are always ready to help,’ he concludes.
For Diana Sandoval Uribe, Social Management Coordinator at Veolia, the company's work is not limited to technical operations, but rather is directed toward sustainable ecological transformation. "We have restored more than 14 critical areas affected by illegal dumping of waste. These interventions are carried out in coordination with the Environmental Secretariat, the Environmental Police, and community representatives," she states.
The official emphasizes that each intervention is planned with the communities, taking into account their needs and priorities. "Our mission is to maintain pleasant, clean, and safe spaces, always working hand in hand with local entities and the people we serve," Sandoval stresses.
A commitment that inspires
Veolia's experience in Barrancabermeja shows that when a company gets involved with the environment in which it operates, the impact multiplies. Not only does it improve urban infrastructure or cleanliness rates, but it also builds trust, promotes social organization, and fosters civic culture.
Veolia has understood that sustainable development begins by listening, acting, and remaining present, even in places where others do not reach. This constant commitment has been recognized by local leaders, residents, and entities, consolidating its role not only as a service provider but also as an active agent of change in the community.