Desafios à vista: o programa de coleta seletiva do Recife como política pública sustentável.

Abstract

In the contemporary scenario, there is an urgent need to rethink the production and disposal of solid waste, especially in urban areas. Selective collection of recyclable materials, a fundamental element in mitigating environmental impacts and promoting responsible practices, emerges as a relevant response. Established by Law No. 12,305/2010 as an integral part of Brazil's National Solid Waste Policy, selective collection is configured as an essential instrument to address challenges in managing urban solid waste. However, its effective implementation faces obstacles, especially concerning the program's ability to achieve its objectives and operate adequately, a reality evidenced in the city of Recife, Pernambuco. In this context, the study examines Recife's Selective Collection Program in serving the city's various social strata as a process to overcome challenges associated with reshaping collection as a sustainable public policy. To achieve this purpose, historical, legislative, and infrastructure analyses were determined, along with the identification of critical points and obstacles faced by cooperatives, as well as an assessment of accessibility in peripheral communities. The methodology used was based on the application of the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) and GUT (Gravity, Urgency, Tendency) matrices, along with bibliographic and documentary research and conducting interviews. This approach allowed for a comprehensive and detailed assessment of the state of recyclable waste collection. The results highlighted several significant aspects. Initially, the complexity of accessibility for peripheral communities to selective collection equipment was evidenced, revealing structural challenges in this area. It was found that the collaboration between the city government and waste pickers' cooperatives has gaps that negatively impact the Selective Collection Program's performance. The existence of legal regulations governing the collection of recyclable materials in the city was noted. However, the frequent presence of material contamination was also observed, emphasizing the need to address issues related to the quality and efficiency of this process. Additionally, the results revealed a notable scarcity and inadequate distribution of Voluntary Drop-off Points (PEVs) in the city, pointing to difficulties in the effective participation of the community. Despite the expansion of household collection to various neighborhoods, the population coverage benefiting from this service proved notably limited, indicating flaws in the program's scope. The insufficiency of available trucks for collection emerged as an additional barrier, compromising the quality and capacity to meet the population's demands. Furthermore, the analysis highlighted the inadequacy of educational initiatives focused on awareness, indicating a gap in actions that could promote a change in behavior regarding responsible waste disposal. Overall, the study provides guidance to enhance the program, consolidating it as a sustainable and inclusive public policy, which significantly contributes to understanding the selective collection scenario in Recife.