Selective waste collection in Brazil: comparing reports and research methodologies

Abstract

Selective waste collection is an activity recognized for its role in urban sustainability. This is especially true in Brazil, where it generates wealth, employment and social inclusion. However, a better understanding of this public service depends on the proper evaluation of its situation. While analyzing the main national reports on selective waste collection, we observed some contrasting statistics. One that deserves attention is the percentage of cities that offer such programs, with values of 14%, 20%, 32% and 60% found in the reports. Therefore, the purpose here was to compare the methods used in these reports in order to find explanation for these differences. The results showed that the sampling method, the quality of the questions, and statistical techniques used in the analyses were responsible for the major variations. Furthermore, it was found that selective waste collection is still incipient in Brazil because recycling programs are available in just 41% of the cities and only about 10% of potentially recyclable waste is actually collected.

Keywords:
Selective waste collection; Urban sustainability; Solid waste