Puerto Tejada, Cauca, October 31, 2024 — Within the framework of the Global Eco-Industrial Parks (EIP) Programme, Zona Franca del Cauca (ZFC) hosted a technical visit that brought together senior representatives of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Colombian industrial leaders. The purpose was to assess progress in ZFC’s transition toward an eco-industrial model, promoting sustainability and innovation in the region.
Highlights of the Visit
The agenda included visits to key initiatives and companies showcasing environmental technologies that strengthen ZFC’s environmental performance:
- LAB ZFC 4.0: a social and educational project that trains children and youth in emerging technological skills. Since 2021, it has positively impacted more than 430 children and young people.
- NGB SAS (COLBESA): replaced a coal boiler with a natural gas boiler, reducing emissions and improving air quality (USD 573,328 investment).
- ALIVAL (Alimentos del Valle S.A.): implemented a solar PV project, generating 728 MWh/year and reducing 868 tCO₂, with an investment of USD 606,195.
- Virutex Ilko Colombia S.A.S.: highlighted its role in industrial symbiosis by reusing 102 tons of residual plastic annually, supporting the circular economy.
Participants
Attendees included Ciyong Zou (UNIDO Deputy Director General), Smail Al Hilali (Head, Circular Economy & Chemicals Management Division), and ZFC leadership, along with the EIP Colombia team (including César Barahona, Juan Gutiérrez, Sara Zafra, and Katherine González).
Progress and Sustainable Impact
The article notes key 2024 progress such as integrating EIP policies into national legislation, capacity-building for industrial parks, support to Congress on a bill to formalize the EIP model, and online monitoring initiatives in prioritized parks—with plans to expand. The visit reinforces UNIDO and Colombia’s free zones commitment to a more sustainable industrial sector and reduced emissions through circular economy practices.
