Challenges of selective collection and the participation of recyclable material catalysts in Simão Dias, SE, Brazil

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the challenges that hinder the selective collection of solid waste in small cities in Brazil. We carried out interviews with representatives of the public power, the cooperative, and collectors. The selective collection made by the collectors' cooperative faces difficulties related to the scarcity of financial resources, the lack of separation of recyclable materials in its generating source, the collectors’ social vulnerability, and the management and commitment difficulties of its members. It is important to implement Environmental Education projects to sensitize and stimulate the participation of public power, community, and waste pickers, create tactics to promote social insertion and improve the working conditions of this group and make the cooperative sustainable.

Keywords

• cooperative
• waste amangement
• social inclusion
• sustainbility