Assessment and Projection of Pollutant Load in Cuba

Pollutant load (PL) and its relation to waste treatment is currently one of the main indicators to be considered when evaluating production and service systems to achieve a more environmental quality and eco-friendly relationship with the environment. The objective of this paper is to evaluate and project environmental efficiency (EE) and PL and their relationship with sustainability in drinking water and liquid and solid wastewater treatment systems (DWWTS) in Cuba during the period from 2010 to 2020. The conceptual paradigm used is the Five Sector Sustainability (5SEnSU) model; econometric and goal programming models and data envelopment analysis (GPDEA). Among the most important results was confirmation of the existence of a direct relationship between PL and the sustainability of drinking water and liquid and solid wastewater treatment systems. Furthermore, the performance of PL in the provinces of Cuba could be explained and projected, based on best practices and in keeping with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations and their indicators. The most sustainable Cuban provinces in terms of EE and PL were determined, as well as the optimal values of the indicators in this sector. In addition, public policies are proposed to contribute to achieving the SDGs and compliance with the country's economic and social development plans until 2030