The impact of the economic instrument Recycling Exchange intended for waste pickers on the glass recycling market in the state of Minas Gerais

ABSTRACT

This study presents an analysis of the results of the implementation of a Payment for Urban Environmental Services (Pagamento por Serviço Ambiental Urbano – PSAU), in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, called ‘Recycling Exchange’ on the glass recycling Market operated by recycled waste pickers in Minas Gerais. The aim was to evaluate the effects of this instrument on the amount of waste reintroduced in the production chain and the social inclusion of waste pickers. It was established that the ‘Recycling Exchange’ met the fundamental objectives of a PSAU: the double social and economic benefit of the social inclusion of waste pickers in the execution of the public policy for solid waste management, by inducing an increase in the sale of glass that has a low market value and continuity of the activity of selling recyclables in times of high fluctuation in prices. The instrument ensured the provision of this environmental service and the positive externalities associated with glass recycling.

Keywords:
economic instruments for waste recycling; payment for urban environmental services; solid wastes; glass recycling; waste pickers; Bolsa Reciclagem