Reutilização de resíduos sólidos alimentícios nas creches municipais: estudo de caso em São Bento – PB.

Abstract

Food is the basis of our life, providing the body with energy and nutrients necessary to maintain the body's balance. However, given the alarming increase in hunger in the world, it is imperative to address food reuse strategies to combat waste. The implementation of sustainable practices that aim to reduce food losses emerges as a relevant response to this scenario. In this sense, the present work aims to understand and raise awareness among children aged 1 to 4 about the importance of good nutrition and combating waste in three municipal daycare centers in the city of São Bento/PB. To this end, exploratory field research was used, with a qualitative approach. The study comprised a holistic approach, aiming to raise awareness and involve children aged 1 to 4, educators, parents and school lunch ladies in more sustainable eating practices. The research began with the analysis of food waste, identifying waste in daycare centers, and with the implementation of practical initiatives, such as educational lectures, mini courses for lunch ladies and the introduction of a new menu with recipes that make use of previously discarded food. The results showed that developing and implementing practical strategies, such as lectures, mini-courses and new menus, not only reduced waste, but also cultivated a broader understanding of conscious and sustainable eating, especially among children. Collecting and comparing data before and after interventions highlights the successes of these practices, not only in terms of reducing waste, but also in terms of positive economic impacts. In general terms, the impact on eating practices was significant, reducing waste and promoting healthy habits. Active awareness raising among the school community, involving parents, lunch ladies and students, was crucial to the success of the project.