Author(s)

H. Ribeiro, G. R. Besen, W. R. Günther, P. Jacobi & J. Demajorovic

Abstract

The aim of this research was to evaluate waste recycling programs in partnership with scavenger associations in Metropolitan São Paulo, to verify their social, economic, sanitary, and environmental impacts in a sustainability perspective. Methods included bibliographical and data research and structured interviews with representatives of 39 municipalities. The analysis of factors responsible for program continuity was undertaken. It was found that among 39 municipalities, 23 (59%) have developed official recycling programs, 19 in partnership with scavenger associations. Indicators analysed showed that the programs resulted in social, and economic gains for scavengers, increased social capital and they contributed to the reduction of waste destined for landfills. However, there are competition factors that have been threatening the continuity of those programs. Keywords: recycling, sustainability, domestic waste, waste management, scavenger, São Paulo, Brazil, association, municipality, metropolitan area. 1 Introduction Only 6.4% of 5,670 Brazilian Municipalities have official waste recycling programs. In Metropolitan São Paulo 20,000 tons of domestic waste are collected daily. Due to widespread urbanization, and lack of adequate lots for landfills, many municipalities adopted recycling programs using scavengers as partners, in

Keywords

recycling, sustainability, domestic waste, waste management, scavenger, São Paulo, Brazil, association, municipality, metropolitan area.