SILVA, S. C.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/0580352720332192; SILVA, Sueny Carla da.
Resumo:
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.