THE SELECTIVE WASTE COLLECTION IN BELO HORIZONTE, MINAS GERAIS: AN ANALYSIS OF THE POPULAR ENGAGEMENT IMPORTANCE

Abstract

Recycling can be an alternative to conventional methods of waste disposal, due to the large waste generation and pursuit for environmentally appropriate solutions to reduce its social and environmental negative impacts. The selective collection depends on the effective participation of citizens, in the proper waste segregation and disposal, so it can be carried out. However, there are challenges that must be overcome regarding the involvement of individuals in these matters, as most of the waste generated is not recycled, possibly due to the population’s lack of interest or knowledge. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to analyze the participation of Belo Horizonte’s inhabitants in the disposal of recyclable waste. Hence, documents issued by the town hall administration and data reported by the municipal Superintendence of Urban Cleaning were consulted. Through data analysis, it was possible to infer that there is a deficiency in social participation in the selective collection in Belo Horizonte. This fact is possibly the result of poor engagement in public policies that prioritize making residents conscious of the importance of recycling, as well as cultural issues. Thus, environmental education, currently implemented, should occur on a larger scale allied to applications of new methodologies to increase populations awareness.