Search

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Waste management in the textile and clothing (TAC) industry is a challenging issue due to high resource consumption and pollution generation. Therefore, the adoption of industrial symbiosis (IS) is the need of the hour for the TAC industry. However, the adoption of IS in emerging economies like India, Brazil, Bangladesh, etc. is limited due to various impediments. The present work aims to identify and analyse these barriers and develop mitigation strategies in the context of Indian TAC industry. Eighteen IS barriers have been identified and validated; and the interrelationships among them are studied by applying the 'weighted influence non-linear gauge system (WINGS)' method, which not only estimates the intensity of influence but also takes the self-strength of barriers into account. The results show that lack of trust amongst supply chain partners, lack of financial incentives from the government, lack of guidance from regularity bodies and industry associations and lack of consumer awareness are the most significant barriers. Additionally, the strategies to mitigate these barriers are developed based on a quadruple helix framework considering academia–-government–industry–society as the main actors. The findings of the study will be helpful for the TAC industry, policymakers and other concerned stakeholders in framing suitable strategies to improve the long-term waste management practices of the industry and to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) used as flame retardants and plasticizers are additives in building and construction materials, decorations, furniture, electronic equipment, among other applications. The presence of materials containing these substances in construction and demolition waste (CDW) from weak waste management practices can result in environmental contamination. In this study, OPEs' presence in soil samples collected from a CDW landfill in Brazil was evaluated. Soil samples were collected in areas adjacent to CDW from an inert landfill, and the samples were analysed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The OPEs were detected in all soil samples at quantifiable concentrations ranging from 21 to 251 ng g−1, and detected compounds were tris(phenyl) phosphate, tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate, tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate, tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate and 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate. The presence of these compounds in a CDW landfill is probably due to the lack of control of the materials sent to and deposited in the landfill, which, results in part from the lack of sampling and screening systems that can help identify the presence of contaminants in the CDW waste stream. This is partially due to OPEs not being considered controlled compounds under current regulations, thus screening or separation for handling of OPEs at construction and demolition work sites is rare to non-existent. The data generated in this study reveals the need for improving CDW management to minimize, if not eliminate, environmental contamination by OPEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf-cutting ants cut and load leaves into their nests to grow the obligate symbiotic fungus, the ants' main food source and shelter for their offspring. Atta, one of the four extant genera of leaf-cutting ants, occurs in most of Brazil. The relationship of these ants with their fungal cultivars represents one of the most successful symbiosis. Cultivating symbiotic fungi on fresh vegetation depend on specific allocation and division of tasks among individuals. This study aimed to understand the growth dynamics of a colony of Atta sexdens, based on the relationship between the growth of the symbiote fungus and the proportion of the minor worker subgroup. The dynamics of fungus growth with 100%, 50%, or 10% of the normal numbers of minor workers present were studied. The behavior of individuals in the foraging chamber and waste disposal was evaluated. Fungal growth in the three treatments fluctuated over time. However, the final fungus-garden volume was similar in all three treatments, likely indicating that homeostatic mechanisms act on the colony growth in response to a loss of workers. We also found variations in behavior and changes in the degree of aggregation of the remaining individuals in response to worker loss. Waste disposal did not differ significantly among the treatments. This investigation not only emphasized the ecological-behavioral importance of the minor workers, primarily involved in internal activities in the nest, but highlighted aspects related to high resilience, nest homeostasis, and growth dynamics of young colonies of leaf-cutting ants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to propose a multidimensional model capable of evaluating, in a participatory method, the pressures agricultural production systems cause to aquatic ecosystems. The model was structured with information compiled from scientific articles, doctoral theses, public documents, and field research performed with the participation of stakeholders through interviews, questionnaires, and group evaluations. The evaluation matrix combines seven criteria and twenty-five sub-criteria with different weights to evaluate two main aspects: (i) land occupation and soil management and (ii) agricultural waste production and disposal. The model was tested in 14 agricultural farms, representing four productive arrangements, in a large watershed (2400 km2) in southern Brazil. The geophysical characteristics of the site (18.3%), land use and occupation (28.2%), management practices (soil and water) (25.4%), manure and fertilizers (12.6%), pesticides (14.1%), agricultural waste and discards (1.4%) were the criteria and their respective weights used in the structure of the proposed evaluation model. The evaluation showed that the combination of the fragility of cultivated environments and the absence of conservation practices represented the greatest risks (72.9%) to maintaining the sound environmental conditions of aquatic ecosystems. For future research, it is recommended that a cost-effectiveness analysis be carried out to evaluate environmental conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is the widest and fastest-growing source of global waste, yet only around 17% of the total generated volume is formally recycled. In Brazil, policies have established the concept of Shared Responsibility as a crucial strategy for increasing recycling rates and achieving Circular Economy (CE) goals. Although there are laws that regulate WEEE through Shared Responsibility principles, companies must engage people to participate in reverse chain logistics. This study performed Action Research (AR) to understand how a WEEE recycling company can engage society and increase the amount of waste that is collected and treated. A collection campaign was tested as a strategy for this purpose, for a specific population, and referencing the specific Reverse Logistics (RL) system offered by the company studied. Furthermore, usability analysis for the company's RL online platform was conducted to verify how easily end users can use this channel. The results of this AR showed the importance of establishing a close relationship between companies, and society at large, to collect and recycle WEEE. Collection campaigns are a powerful way of constantly generating awareness among the populace. Finally, we were able to conclude via this AR, that all stakeholders are essential if the WEEE reverse chain system is to succeed. Companies need to have a way of reaching end users, maintaining continuous feedback, and providing easier ways for freely disposing of waste. Additionally, governments must support the private sector in raising end-user awareness and promoting education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase of the urban population in the world and the associated economic expansion have accelerated municipal solid waste (MSW) production. About 40% of the world's waste is disposed of inappropriately in open dumps and/or only partially controlled landfills. Many types of waste are mixed and disposed without treatment in illegal dumpsites or non-sanitary landfills, especially in developing countries such as Brazil. This research aims to identify areas for the implementation of landfills in the tropical climate of the Metropolitan Region of Salvador (MRS), Brazil, which generates approximately 4900 tons of MSW per day. In a first step, geographic information system (GIS) is used to apply Boolean logic to 15 restrictive criteria based on Brazilian legislation. In a second step, locations found to be legally appropriate are ranked with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) in a multi-criteria decision approach using 11 non-restrictive criteria based on technical knowledge and literature. Results show that 6% of the areas are classified as highly suitable, 16% as suitable, 9% not suitable, and 69% with legal restrictions. The result of this study serves as a guide for suitably siting landfills in the MRS and similar regions in the world, reducing costs and biased assessments potentially implied by empirical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Waste production and management from residents and collection for sorting are systems heavily dependent on territorial dimensions. Ergonomic research needs to better integrate such territorial determinants to improve work conditions and design sustainable work systems. OBJECTIVE: Through studies in France and Brazil, this paper analyzes the territorial relations that raise work systems' sustainability challenges for materials recovery facilities (MRFs) and waste management in both countries and examines the links between work activity and territory in MRFs. METHODS: Both studies were based on the principles of activity-oriented ergonomics and used analyses of work activity and sociotechnical systems. The French study focused on interventions conducted over a 42-month period in five MRFs. The Brazilian study was based on a 20-month longitudinal qualitative and quantitative study. RESULTS: In this paper, we argue that territory is a key determining factor in waste production and work. Notably, the consumption patterns of residents and the economic flows within a geographic space determine the waste composition; and the territorially specified public policies, which define technical and social dimensions of waste collection and sorting. However, the territorial dimensions of waste are poorly considered in facility design. Workers' health and sorting system performance are thus affected and negatively compromising plant performance. CONCLUSION: The territory appears as a blind spot in the design of work systems. One of the challenges is to create interfaces and devices that could help to integrate better human activity and waste territorialized anchorage, in a multilevel organization, from local communities to the global recycling chains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This article discusses expanded governance of territorial issues as the basis for a sustainable way of producing and commercializing, as well as the relevance of work analysis within this governance. This discussion is developed from the Functionality and Cooperation Economy approach and from Brazilian experiences of organic food production and community-based solid waste management. OBJECTIVE: To identify and analyze the relationship between territorial issues and work activities in initiatives that seek territorial solutions for food and waste management in order to reflect on a sustainable economic transition and its challenges. METHODS: This article presents a reflection, a posteriori, concerning the follow-up of two initiatives that seek a sustainable economy and that, facing territorial issues, adopted different economic strategies. The field of research, by which the intended reflections are guided, originated from two intervention projects conducted by two different research/intervention groups. RESULTS: Our study highlights how the central focus on the effects of work in a territory can support the development of reflexivity and, consequently, the production of transversal cooperation and the sharing of material and immaterial resources, thereby leading to multifunctional territorial solutions. CONCLUSION: This study presents how the co-construction of multifunctional territorial solutions, involving cooperation among different actors, can be developed by an analysis of the respective activities involved. This analysis confers centrality to real work in order to feed the governance devices and enable the development of relationships of trust, necessary for living and producing in harmony, along with the construction of conventions and dynamic cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 pandemic has changed several aspects in human behaviour, whereas population mobility patterns have been strongly affected by social distancing. In parallel, changes in solid waste generation patterns have been reported worldwide. This work assessed the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on waste generation and collection in São Paulo city, Brazil, the largest city of Latin America. Data on nine types of wastes collected between 2013 and 2021 were obtained, and the quantities of wastes collected before and during the pandemic were compared. These data were also discussed in light of data on COVID-19 cases and rates of social distancing and mobility. An increase in the amount of recyclables collected during the first wave of COVID-19 (March to September 2020) was observed. Decreases in the quantities of construction, demolition and bulky wastes (first wave of COVID-19) and farmers market wastes (second wave – October 2020 to February 2021) were also evidenced. The quantities of medical wastes collected during the pandemic significantly increased. The amount of residential wastes was lower than the mean for the pre-pandemic period during the first months of COVID-19. Thus, changes in lifestyle and consumption patterns of the population of São Paulo city seem to have affected solid waste generation during the pandemic, which reinforces the need of implementing solid waste management policies based on a diagnostic that characterise and consider these changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater pollution is a current issue that may result in considerable negative effects on human health and the ecological balance. In the present study, the authors evaluated pollutants in groundwater in Maricá Municipality, located on the east side of Rio de Janeiro state in Brazil. The evaluated parameters were temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, Eh, dissolved oxygen, chlorides, nitrates, dissolved organic carbon, total inorganic carbon, phosphates, and total and thermotolerant coliforms. Due to the large number of evaluated points, they were divided into zones according to the respective hydrographic basin. The local accelerated urbanization accompanying income from oil production has led to uncontrolled population growth and associated groundwater pollution. The results of the present study suggest that sewage pollution of Maricá groundwater is already a significant issue. The lack of investment in basic sanitation has led to an imbalance in the local groundwater reservoir. In certain locations of the municipality, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), nutrient, and bacteria concentrations increase and spread in the aquifers because of domestic waste disposal. As aquifers are the main source of freshwater for the residents, contamination of them represents a potential threat to local public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global surge in urbanization and population growth has led to a significant increase in municipal solid waste generation, posing a considerable challenge in identifying suitable landfill sites. This study proposes a novel framework that enhances landfill site monitoring and assessment by combining GIS-based hierarchical analytical processes with a fuzzy inference system (FIS). The study employs a systematic approach involving phases such as feature selection, spatial analysis, criteria weighting, FIS building, and a case study conducted in São Paulo State, Brazil. The proposed framework effectively assesses landfill suitability and offers practical recommendations for landfill management and future site selection. This framework provides actionable recommendations for landfill monitoring and assessment, supporting landfill management while minimizing environmental and social impacts. It offers a comprehensive approach to landfill assessment, enhancing the sustainability of waste management practices. Further research can improve the proposed framework by refining feature selection and incorporating real-time data for continuous monitoring. Additionally, exploring the integration of emerging technologies, such as remote sensing and artificial intelligence, can further enhance landfill site monitoring and assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of solid waste is one of the biggest challenges for sustainability. Aiming at gains of scale, guaranteeing universal access and the technical and economic viability of the services, intermunicipal cooperation has been implemented in several countries, and in Brazil, it presents itself as one of the main instruments of public policies in the sector of sanitation. The main objective of this article is to propose a set of indicators and the construction of an index to evaluate the performance of regionalized management of urban solid waste, applying them to intermunicipal public consortia operating in Brazil. Based on the Delphi methodology, a total of 15 indicators were defined, divided into 5 sustainability dimensions, used for the construction of the Regionalized Urban Solid Waste Management Performance Index (IDGRSU). In Brazil, the performance of regionalized management was classified as Regular for most of the operating consortia analysed. The adequacy of the final disposal in regional sanitary landfills is the common practice among the municipalities, and consequently, the reduction of the areas of dumps represents the main advance in the management. The index developed proved to be an important instrument to support municipalities and consortia for waste management, contributing to the implementation of sustainable strategies and to the development of policies, and its application in other countries is feasible, regardless of the size of the municipalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on microplastics in Latin America is limited compared to a global perspective. Brazil plays a significant role in this context, as it possesses 12% of the world's freshwater reserves, constituting 53% of South America's water resources. There has been growing concern regarding the plastic pollution of the country's freshwater systems in recent years. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of plastic pollution on the Guaíba River, a significant watercourse in the southern region of Brazil that is subjected to high anthropogenic pressure. Additionally, we examined correlations between the presence of microplastics and key factors influencing their distribution in the river. Thus, freshwater was collected in seven sampling campaigns from 2019 to 2020, totaling 66 samples. The microplastics were quantified and characterized according to their color, shape, and polymeric composition. The concentration of microplastics varied between 2.9 and 53.8 items m−3, and the distribution and transport were positively influenced by the population density, precipitations, and depth of each sampling point. White-transparent color category (51%) and fragment shape (89%) were predominant among the found particles. Polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) represented 37% and 57% of the analyzed particles. The non-metric multidimensional scaling (nMDS) analysis indicated that similar contamination sources, such as domestic sewage, could influence three out of ten sampled points. Several microplastics presented the formation of cracks, with sizes smaller than 10 μm on their surface, which might indicate an erosion process, resulting in the formation of nanoplastics. The color fading observed in microplastics suggests that the particles were subjected to environmental stressors, leading to the leaching or degradation of the dye on the plastic. The results confirmed the ubiquity of microplastics in Guaíba River, highlighting the importance of improving the regulations on plastic waste disposal in the country to prevent the contamination of freshwater bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to predict the potential for secondary lead recovery from motorcycle batteries in Brazil, since this is considered the second largest category of automobiles in the country. To achieve this objective, a forecasting model based on the ARIMA methodology was applied, with input data taken from Brazilian sectorial platforms. Furthermore, an analysis of the data, of the residuals, autocorrelation tests, as well as Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Dickey-Fuller tests, were performed. The SARIMA model (3,1,0) (2,0,0)12 presented a better adaptation to the behavior of the series. The results showed that the amount of secondary lead obtained based on the forecast model will be 89,972,842.08 million tons between 2021 and 2030 (14 million tons of lead originated only from motorcycle LABs in 2021). These results show a possible insufficiency of the installed capacity to supply the amount of lead to be processed in the country, not to mention the LABs from other vehicles (light and heavy) and other emerging battery technologies from electric vehicles. In addition, an analysis was conducted on the importance of secondary lead for the economy and the dangers of illegal recycling in Brazil. In general, this study contributes to the understanding of the importance of secondary production of lead in Brazil, an important asset for a country that does not have sufficient primary production for its domestic demand. The findings may assist in several alternatives for the proper planning and management of the collection, disposal and recycling of lead, providing the Brazilian government with directions for the development of new policies related to lead recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although the number of studies that investigate supply chain sustainability learning has increased, little is known about the way sub-suppliers build knowledge and learn sustainability practices. Thus, moving beyond merely investigating the accumulation of knowledge, this research explores sub-suppliers' knowing that supports the learning of sustainability practices in a multi-tiered food supply chain. Design/methodology/approach: In the conduct of this interpretive research in South Brazil, two ethnographies were completed during 74 days of observations to understand similarities and differences between certified and non-certified sub-suppliers with respect to sustainability practices. As part of our research conducted in the context of poultry production, secondary data and data gathered through semi-structured interviews with representatives of the buyer and first-tier supplier firms were used to provide a better comprehension of the multi-tiered supply chain context. Then, we executed an interpretive textual analysis. Findings: Our investigation explored six vignettes to reveal ways of learning sustainability practices in terms of waste management, biosecurity and animal welfare. Although the buyer firm requested these practices, we noted that the first-tier supplier was responsible for translating the practices to sub-suppliers. Moreover, we found that sustainability learning was shaped by the sub-supplier context embodied in knowledge through knowing. The ways of learning were related to sharing knowledge between experts and novices with the support of material practices; however, knowledge was also gained by unlearning some knowledge shared by the supplier. Sustainability practice learning, thus, was performed in a space of learning via knowledge creation among practitioners. Practical implications: Recognising how sustainability learning happens in a multi-tiered supply chain context can help managers to develop plans to implement sustainability practices that will broaden their sustainability knowledge. Originality/value: Unlike previous studies on supply chain sustainability learning, we reveal ways that sustainability practices emerge from knowledge that results from sub-suppliers' knowing. We also explain how unlearning can consciously occur in several situations of sustainability learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Açaí is a fruit native to Brazil that is found in Colombia, and it is recognized for containing more than 90 compounds with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and other biological activities. In this study, a cradle-to-gate life cycle analysis (LCA) was conducted for the production of açaí powder, following the methodology outlined in the ISO 14040 standard. The investigation focused on examining the impact of utilizing or not utilizing the residues generated during the pulp extraction step as fertilizers. Four scenarios were analyzed and compared: (i) production of açaí powder via vacuum drying, (ii) via spray drying, and via the same two types of drying but using residues from the pulping operation as fertilizer (Scenarios 3 and 4). It was found that to produce 1 kg of açaí in a crop cycle, 1.17 kg of CO2 eq is produced. The drying stage in Scenarios 1 and 2 generated 8.04 and 7.93 kg of CO2 eq, respectively. Similarly, when solid waste is used as fertilizer, CO2 emissions barely increased for Scenarios 3 and 4, respectively. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first carbon footprint study of the production of açaí powder whit these scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The quest for new energy sources is one of the most significant aspects of the renewed environmental consciousness that prevails in the contemporary world. The omnipresent use of fossil fuels and other harmful sources became one of the principal worries of the political and scientific communities, that since the past century started a campaign in search of alternatives. Aims: The aim of was to discuss contributions of energy recovery derived from MSU to the Brazilian panorama of electrical sources, adopting circular economy applied to a municipality. Methods: a revision of the literature was undertaken, to gather concepts and cases, taking circular economy, waste management and municipality as keywords. Results: The gathered papers present the prominence of circular economy in the intellectual scenario of environmental debate; also, a lack in previous treatment of collected residue, especially the sorting of materials by population, which impacts negatively the recovery. Discussion: The key aspects of the problem include promoting popular engagement in the cycle, identified as an important asset for a successful process. This includes the latin american scenario, that began to change recently with pilot plans implemented in some regions. The efficient way is to engage both industry and population in the process. Conclusions: One of the cleaners panoramas of energy sources, such facility could be installed in Brazil, following a south American upraising that already has Santa Rosa, Peru, and Barueri, in Brazil itself. An opportunity to develop regions and municipalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Saberes Plurais is the property of Saberes Plurais and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Landfills are one of the alternatives used for solid urban waste disposal; however, improperly operated landfills can generate severe environmental issues. Thus, the current study aims to analyze probable groundwater contamination deriving from landfill operations in northwest in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. A chemical analysis applied to the quality of water deriving from monitoring wells in association with a geophysical survey (DC-resistivity method) was carried out along the landfill area of interest (8 measured profiles). Data results, analysis, and interpretation of water quality parameters and resistivity detected values (ranges) applying geophysics allowed identifying a contamination zone in the lowest topographic elevations of the investigated site. Water quality parameters alterations were also detected (i.e., nitrate and sulfate) with values of 1590 mg L−1, and outlined resistivity zones with values lower than 30 Ω m were observed along with all measured profiles. Pseudo-section resistivity profiles and observed anomalies also made it possible to detect and delineate subsurface flow directions associated with the measured electrical resistivity values and ranges for soil and rocks. Observed changes in water quality parameters analyzed in the investigated site, as well as geophysics results and integration with water quality data, allowed seeing the incidence of contaminated zones and the formation of a temporary non-continuous suspended aquifer in it, although its clayish soil acted as a near-surface barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A circular city (CC) promotes circular economy (CE) principles. Efficient urban solid waste management (USWM) strategies are essential for promoting a CE at the municipal level. New tools are needed to evaluate waste management (WM) and increase the reuse and recycling of materials to accelerate the transition towards a CC. These tools could assist decision and policymakers in adopting, implementing, and monitoring circular practices. This study proposes creating an index (USWM-index) to evaluate WM in urban areas and discuss how it could be better managed in future sustainable circular cities in Brazil. The index allows city managers to integratively and sustainably assess their USWM. Decision-makers can also use the index to set goals and objectives for recycling and reusing generated waste in cities. The index comprises 19 indicators and 51 sub-indicators. These elements were divided into five groups: Operational, Environmental, Political-economic, Educational, and Social. Cities can assess their performance in each group by using the USWM-index. The index was applied to four Brazilian cities. All cities had their USWM classified as average, and they did not have initiatives to transition to sustainable circular cities regarding WM. This study presents guidelines for transitioning from a linear city to a sustainable circular city in terms of WM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the diversity of electronic waste, lithium-ion batteries (LIB), specifically those used in the propulsion of electric vehicles (EV), are considered pollutants of significant impact. When not used and disposed of correctly, LIBs can cause damage of various types to health and the environment. The electrochemical instability inherent in these batteries releases toxic gases, risks explosion, and is always associated with a series of electronic circuits composed of various metals, including heavy metals. As a result of public policies to encourage vehicle electrification, the Brazilian EVs sector has shown high growth, even within an economic crisis scenario. In this sense, this study presents a model for estimating the production of electric vehicles and the generation of scrap LIBs, based on time series, combining battery life, car sales data, and the mileage profile covered by a car in Brazil. Around 700 thousand EVs are expected to be circulating in Brazil by 2030, with approximately 500 thousand LIBs to be converted into scrap by 2040. Finally, the delaying effect of the scrap generated from LIBs is highlighted, in line with the battery life, which, in the future, may have a very negative impact on waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the forms of correct disposal of domestic waste from insulin therapy and develop a technology for patient education (booklet). Methods: Descriptive and exploratory study, integrative review type. The survey of publications was conducted between July and December 2021, from the Latin American Literature in Health Sciences (Lilacs), Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo) and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, using the following descriptors: Diabetes Mellitus; Insulin; Waste Management. Results: It was identified that the guidance to people with Diabetes Mellitus regarding the correct disposal of needles, syringes, lancets, reagent strips, among others is deficient and that the lack of specific Brazilian legislation for health care waste produced in households is the main problem for the inadequate management of health care waste. From the findings it was possible to develop a technology for education of people using insulin. Conclusion: There is a need to invest in guidance and prevention actions, to reinforce to users the care in the disposal of health services waste. The training of health professionals enables the transfer of appropriate and consistent guidance to users, aiming to protect those who produce waste, the collectors and the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In Brazil, there are few studies with recyclers of Waste Sorting Units (WSUs). Several social phenomena have been associated with increased food insecurity (FI) in less developed countries. The study aims to describe food insecurity prevalence in recyclers. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted with adults from two WSUs in the city of Porto Alegre, southern Brazil, between 2017 and 2018. All data assessment occurred in WSUs. Anthropometric measurements were assessed by weight, height and waist circumference. Food insecurity was assessed with the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale (EBIA) and substance use was evaluated by the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). Results: 123 subjects were evaluated, with a mean age of 35 ± 13.4 years, 66% of which were female. A FI rate of 74% was identified, and of these, 16% had Severe Food Insecurity. About 57% of participants were overweight or obese and 48% presented high waist circumference. Regarding substance use, 60.5% were classified for tobacco abuse and 14% for alcohol abuse. Conclusion: Multidisciplinary interventions are needed to prevent all health issues encountered as well as implementation of public policies for the recyclers' health promotion. It is essential that both society and the government recognize the existence of these problems so that measures can be carried out by health institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are almost 8 billion people on the planet with every single one of them producing some type of waste. The cost of recycling and money made by selling recyclable products has created a strong foundation for informal waste picking to exist. Waste pickers sort through garbage to find recyclable material; it is estimated that there are around 20 million waste pickers worldwide. In 2022, I went to experience life as a waste picker in Brasilia, Brazil for a day to understand issues that may continue to exist in this informal industry. I worked in a triage center and used this experience to inform my autoethnography; even though I have worked in waste picker research for almost a decade, this experience led to a different conclusion. The most interesting issue that I found while working as a waste picker was the lack of uniformity in waste picking, which led to people working on the streets or in co-op triage centers. This population is vulnerable which is worsened from exposure to hazards by nature of the informal environment; this situation contributes to ongoing poor working conditions through lack of governmental oversight, policy development, and change. Ultimately, informality needs to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gestão e Desenvolvimento (18075436) is the property of Universidade Feevale and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Paper aims: This paper aims to compare the results of the THOR2 Method, in comparison to the original THOR method, and to analyse possible rank changes between the methods, to support decision-making in the evolutionary process of waste recycling in Brazil. Originality; Proposes a revision of the model for analysis of Waste Recycling, highlighting the vision of three decision makers individually, and later the integrated vision. Research method: State of the art of the THOR and THOR2 methods, through an investigation in four databases and comparison using THORWeb. Main findings: As a result of the disposal of plastic waste, reuse, mechanical recycling, chemical and incineration remained in the positions with the consumer as a decision maker. With the other decision makers there was only one significant change, where the landfill went from last to first position. Implications for theory and practice: There was only one significant change when comparing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex physical-chemical and microbiological composition of leachate in sanitary landfills sets the adequate treatment for different waste types. However, before the final disposal of wastes in receptor waterbodies, it is essential to use specific methods to quantitatively prevent internal flows to find proper treatments. The aim of the present research is to use hydrological models to estimate monthly leachate flow generation in Macapá's Municipal Sanitary Landfill (ASMM), Amapá State, Brazil. Disregarding the temporal trend bias, the average (0.45 m³s-1), minimum (0.07 m³s-1) and maximum (0.72m³s-1) flows were estimated based on hydrological models in the literature (Rmax = 99%, p < 0:05). The results estimated from different hydrological gauges pointed towards significant spatial variations in final discharge. Thus, estimated flows worked as reference to calculate the loads of coproducts and nutrients concerning different operational stages in ASMM. Therefore, rain intensity estimates have pointed out precipitation variability, and it has significantly affected leachate flow. In conclusion, there would be a proportional increase in leachate flow during extreme maximum precipitation events; overflow would be the effect of such flows and it would assumingly have impact on its surrounding areas. It is also possible estimating some degree of rainfall impact over ASMM's infrastructure in the long term (>10 years), since it could influence its lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare waste (HCW) management is a challenge for establishments that generate this type of waste, especially hospitals, as they are one of the largest generators. A determining factor in waste management is the amount of waste generation, which must be used for management planning. This study aims to compile and evaluate information on the management of HCW generated in Belo Horizonte's (located in Brazil) hospitals declared in their respective Healthcare Waste Management Plans (HCWMP) sent for approval by the municipality's Superintendency of Urban Cleaning. Therefore, a comparative analysis of the hospitals' generations in relation to their characteristics (nature, specialty, and size) was carried out, using the Kruskal–Wallis statistical test with post hoc in Nemenyi. For the study hospitals, a generation rate of 7.18 (6.17–8.23) kg·bed−1·day−1 was estimated, a generation rate close to that of developed countries. When comparing the generation according to the specialty of the hospitals, it was identified that the maternity hospitals (9.00 (7.05–10.90)) kg·bed−1·day−1 had a significantly higher generation rate than the low-complexity hospitals (4.75 (3.28–6.18)) kg·bed−1·day−1. It was also possible to demonstrate that the specialty and size of hospitals influence the structure available for waste storage. Finally, it can be observed that there are few treatment alternatives, with incineration and autoclaving being the technologies most commonly used by hospitals. It is expected that the results presented can serve as a reference for waste managers, in a context where there is little shared information on the subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• There is a limited number of collection points for waste batteries in Vale do Aço. • Local residents and retailers have limited information about batteries management. • Local waste pickers are neither trained nor equipped to handle waste batteries. • Awareness is the main factor affecting the disposal method adopted by consumers. • More than half of Vale do Aço's municipalities lack solid waste management plans. The Brazilian National Solid Waste Policy (BNSWP) determines that reverse logistics (RL) of waste batteries is mandatory and adopts the principle of shared responsibility among stakeholders. In this work, we sought to diagnose the current state of the RL chain for batteries in Vale do Aço, Brazil, and identify challenges and potentialities related to its improvement. Data were obtained by means of questionnaires sent to the main stakeholders involved in the batteries RL chain and by consultation of official Brazilian databases. The results showed that the main obstacles to the implementation of the RL of portable batteries in the region are: the lack of information by consumers and retailers regarding the BNSWP and management of waste batteries; the existence of few collection and consolidation points in the region; lack of municipal waste management plans; and lack of sustainability of waste picker organizations. The identified potentialities were: the good receptivity of environmental education actions by the population; the possibility of taking advantage of direct logistics of local retail chains to collect waste; the existence of a special waste management and transportation company in the region; and the existence of waste picker organizations interested in integrating the RL system. Finally, by a SWOT analysis, strategies for the implementation of a more effective RL system were drawn up. This work can serve as a basis for the structuring and implementation of the batteries RL system at the Metropolitan Region of Vale do Aço (MRVA) and can be a reference for other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Brazil's construction industry seeks waste-to-energy routes for sustainability. • Proposed blend offers suitable biofuel, overcoming ash content challenges. • Torrefaction of wood blends at 250 °C yields efficient bioenergy. • CO 2 eq optimal reduction by replacing fossil fuels with 250 °C torrefied blend. • Blending offers an eco-friendly, renewable biofuel, minimizing environmental impact. As Brazil's construction industry plays a pivotal role in its economy, there is growing interest in sustainable alternatives, particularly waste-to-energy solutions. Wood waste from the construction industry (WCW) is a biomass source with economic value applications and can be used in the market as fuel. One of the bottlenecks of implementing WCW in urban centers is the continuous availability of materials to meet the demand, which is allied with the WCW contaminations and promotes high ash content. Therefore, blend formation has emerged as a solution to maximize the use of this waste and minimize the ash content, addressing issues such as machinery corrosion and slag formation during combustion. This study forwards improving the use of WCW as a biofuel via torrefaction by proposing an original blend of 50:50 WCW and Eucalyptus sp., torrefied at 200 (B200), 250 (B250), and 300 °C (B300) for 50 min. A comprehensive analysis assessed torrefaction process performance (kinetics and indexes), evaluating ultimate, proximate, physical (bulk density and SEM), bioenergy density, and energetic properties, examining combustion behavior and related emissions of the biofuel. Results highlight the most efficient treatment, B250, with 1.24 % ash, 20.76 MJ kg−1 heating value, 86.88 % mass yield, 91.25 % energy yield, and 6.38 bioenergy density. Replacing 1 m3 of oil, diesel, fuel oil, gasoline or 1 ton of coal with B250 could reduce CO 2eq emissions by 590.88, 620.85, 469.68, 770.49, and 1894.4 kg, respectively. The study aligns with SDGs 7, 11, 12, and 13, promoting sustainable cities, responsible waste management, and climate action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of World Food Policy is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The transition to a circular economy (CE) challenges organizations from different backgrounds. This research performed a combined circularity and Organizational Life Cycle Assessment (OLCA) of a certified zero-waste vegan restaurant in Brazil. The circularity assessment was carried through the Circular Transition Indicators (CTI) and Waste Hierarchy Index (WHI). Three scenarios were developed: Scenario 1 characterizes the real operations of the organization; Scenario 2 adds meat and dairy to the menu, and Scenario 3 disregards all circular practices applied by the restaurant. Scenario 1 performed better in eight out of nine impact categories assessed (ex: the carbon footprint of a regular restaurant was 26% higher than the reported organization). OLCA results point at the environmental benefit of following a plant-based menu and applying circular practices in the case of the targeted organization. CTI characterized the three scenarios as being 91%, 67%, and 62% circular, respectively. These results showed that avoiding meat and dairy, procuring agroecological food options, and implementing practices such as reuse, recycling, and composting directly improve the overall circularity of the system. WHI results were 51% for Scenarios 1 and 2, and −83% for Scenario 3, pointing at a drastic change in waste hierarchy through redirecting waste to different pathways other than the sanitary landfill. Due to the large variety of inputs needed by the restaurants, the production and procurement of goods were appointed as the main impact driver in all three methodologies. The influence of dietary changes, localism, and CE-related waste management practices is stressed in discussions of the article. Our research innovates by combining life cycle and circularity assessments at the organizational scale. This integrated approach equips decision-makers to understand the circularity, waste hierarchy, and environmental impacts of their business through a unified methodology. Future studies could bring our approach to other sectors and companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the article is to analyze the chain of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) and its waste (WEEE), within the product chain of Recicladora Urbana (Reurbi), and its interaction with the circular economy. Design/methodology/approach: Exploratory research with a qualitative approach, based on the study case method, was conducted. The following stages were carried out: definition of the study object; bibliographic survey; documentary survey; technical visit to Reurbi; contacts with experts; creation of research instruments and research execution. Findings: The main recipients of remanufactured EEE are third sector organizations that run social programs and schools with few financial resources. Recycling firms receive parts and components from the WEEE handled by Reurbi. Research limitations/implications: The authors only addressed the WEEE reverse remanufacturing chain of Reurbi; therefore, the authors cannot extend the results to an industrial sector. Practical implications: One practical contribution is disclosing the remanufacturing processes of EEE and the recycling processes of its waste, fostered by the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS), under a circular economy policy. Social implications: There is a large market potential for reverse logistics of WEEE and end-of-life EEE as a source of raw material, which is yet to be explored in Brazil, for creating new jobs and revenue. Originality/value: The publication of articles with the main reflections from the results can provide new discussions and provide opportunities for new studies regarding the Brazilian Solid Waste Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mining activity contributes significantly to the development of a country, due to the attraction for financial investments in this sector, high profits, and generation of jobs. However, the historic of serious accidents caused by the rupture of tailings dams it has shown failures in operation and risk management that begins in the project planning and extends in the choice of the method of elevation and the monitoring of the dam through the inspection and instrumentation. The accidents caused by this type of structure cause disastrous social, economic and environmental consequences. This study aims to identify the contributing causes for the occurrence of accidents with mining tailings dams and demonstrate the consequences if safety measures are not adopted to prevent disruption and guarantee functionality. The work aims to study the current challenges of mining in Brazil and optimize natural resources through the concept of circular economy, aiming to minimize the environmental impacts that can be caused to society. The precariousness and lack of hydrological studies in tailings dam projects will also be addressed in this article, as well as the need to implement public policies with environmental sustainability in waste management, aiming to reduce the risks of accidents in tailings dams, as well as to preserve mineral resources for future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a generation of more than 2 million metric tons per year, Brazil is the largest producer of waste electrical and electronic equipment in Latin America. However, Brazil does not have its own way for treating printed circuit boards, a key component present in this type of waste. In this context, the processing of these components would allow the extraction of metals with high added value, mainly copper, silver, gold, and palladium. The purpose of this research is to design a conceptual treatment route, based on the integration of technologies described in the literature. After creating the route design, a mass and energy balances were performed, considering two printed circuit board source as raw material: (Case A) Wasted equipment in general; (Case B) Using only cell phones. For both cases, the treatment of 2 t·h−1 was considered. In addition, cost estimates and plant sensitivity analysis were carried out. For 15 years of plant production, the calculated Capex was USD 2,002,682, where an internal return rate of 140.1% and 3933.0% was obtained for Case A and B, respectively, and a net present value of USD 44,403,373 and USD 3,210,393,496 for Case A and B, respectively. Additionally, it was observed that Case A has a great sensitivity to the variation of the processing volume. Based on the present findings, this theoretical research has the potential to be a nucleation point in the design of a future industrial plant dedicated to the recycling of printed circuit boards, as well as to understand the key variables for the processing these components, based on Brazilian circumstances. Additionally, the project presents the hypothetical investment required for the creation of such conceptual plant, which is a crucial piece of information for potential investors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Plastic has been present in our lives for the past century as an essential material for many commodity items. However, the same properties that make plastic convenient are also responsible for the current dramatic environmental pollution. As an alternative, most of the world has been working with technological innovations, and one of its strategies is the use of bioplastics. Despite being considered environmentally beneficial by some people, there are still developments and discussions that need to be made. This article aims to present a legislative review and discusses the difficulty in implementing policies related to the incentive of the bioplastics market, as well as presenting some state and municipal laws, already prohibiting single-use plastics in Brazil. These laws aim to encourage the substitution of these plastics for biodegradable ones. However, it still has gaps and a lack of clarification on how the banning of disposable plastics and their substitution will be beneficial since composting is still an incipient process in the country. It is also the purpose of this article to discuss the challenges in the context of the Circular Economy, as well as the potential solution based on the creation of public policies aimed at improving waste management, in addition to clearer legislation on alternatives to single-use plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de Ciencias Agricolas is the property of University of Narino, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Family farmers in Brazil could diversify their sources of income and improve agriculture practices by adopting circular economy principles on their farms. Closed-loop technological systems can be used to manage organic waste and produce fertiliser and biogas thereby generating revenue. Anaerobic Digestion (AD) is a proven technology that can produce digestate (i.e. fertiliser) and biogas from organic waste, although digestate application in soil and crops without treatment can have adverse effects. However, in practice, there is a lack of knowledge about the benefits of recycling organic waste in farming communities in Brazil. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to provide conceptual design configurations of closed-loop systems that manage organic waste and generate revenue for small farms in Brazil. A literature review of selected technologies and interviews with Brazilian family farmers were used to inform the components of the proposed conceptual designs. The proposed designs are based on circular economy principles, incorporating AD, pyrolysis for biochar, hydroponics and vermifiltration in various configurations. A complete closed-loop system consisting of a 7.5 m3 digester, pyrolysis unit, a combined hydroponic and vermifilter unit and a shredder is estimated to cost around USD$1600 (R$ 6600). The flexibility of the proposed systems has the potential to increase resilience and income for small-scale farmers, whilst encouraging good practices for waste management. The conceptual designs can be used as a basis for further research and development of small-scale organic waste management solutions in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper reports a study of Clean Development Mechanism implementation in landfills in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. CDM is supposed to promote sustainable development through projects of GHG emission reductions. This analysis focuses on the power relationships behind the socio-political process of adopting the mechanism in landfills where emissions have been reduced by the breakdown of biodegradable waste. Sociological concepts such as 'ecological practices'; 'market' and 'environmental justice' were used for the analysis. CDM's neoliberal traits combined with local economic interests that shape the waste management domain in Rio can affect the mechanism's capacity to promote local social-environmental progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coastal ecosystems have ecological importance worldwide and require control and prevention measures to mitigate human pollution. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review to provide a comprehensive overview of the global issue of coastal plastic pollution. 689 articles were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 31 were considered for quantitative analysis. There was an exponential increase in articles addressing coastal plastic pollution over the past 50 years. Studies were mainly carried out on beaches, and plastic bottles were the most found item, followed by cigarette butts. Polyethylene was the predominant plastic polymer, and white microplastic fragments stood out. China published most articles on the topic and Brazil had the highest number of sites sampled. Meta-analysis had significant effect sizes based on the reported data. These findings carry significant implications for environmental policies, waste management practices, and targeted awareness campaigns aimed at mitigating plastic pollution. [Display omitted] • Plastic bottles are the most found plastic items in coastal areas worldwide. • Polyethylene is the most prevalent typology of plastic in coastal environments. • Microplastics account for about 60 % of the plastics found in coastal zones • Exponential growth in publications on coastal plastic pollution after 1971 • Standardizing studies on plastic presence in the environment is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to discuss to what extent are WMPs practical tools for circular and sustainable waste management in universities, presenting, therefore, a case study of the usage of WMP in the Brazilian public universities and comparing this scenario with the international context. Design/methodology/approach: The WMPs were identified by online search and analyzed according to qualitative indicators (spatial-temporal distribution, year, extent and virtual availability), and through circularity and sustainability criteria, using a proposed checklist. Findings: Even being mandatory instruments, only 17% of the 103 public universities in Brazil had a WMP identified, and, among these plans, 55% were restricted to healthcare services waste, only 15% covered all university campuses. Although most of the available plans indicate measures for more sustainable waste management (e.g., recyclable waste collection on campus), they lack specific deadlines for presented goals on waste management, treating waste management at a more emergency pace than in well-structured long-term planning. Originality/value: Numerous studies have discussed waste management strategies for universities worldwide, but few have addressed the usage and structure of WMPs. A case study of the Brazilian situation in light of the international scenario is of great value in understanding the differences between universities in terms of waste management, and with strong potential to support the structuring of more solid environmental policies in universities, especially in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under what conditions do collaborations between informal workers and the state in public service provision lead to socially beneficial synergies, and when might they intensify inequalities? This article, based on 14 months of ethnographic research, addresses this question through a comparative case study of two attempts to co-produce recycling services in São Paulo. The first, a grassroots organizing effort in the 1980s and 1990s, improved the incomes and conditions of hundreds of waste pickers and inspired a national upsurge of waste picker organizing. The second, an ambitious overhaul of waste management in the early 2000s, generated about 1,500 jobs but functionally excluded the very population of street waste pickers it was designed to benefit. The findings suggest that co-production is most likely to lead to pro-poor outcomes if concerted efforts are made to level inequalities between poor constituents and more powerful stakeholders during processes of policy design and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the characterization of municipal solid waste (MSW) randomly collected from two material recovery facilities in São Paulo city, before (input — recyclables) and after (output — rejects) the sorting processes. Geo-environmental and geotechnical tests were performed on shredded samples and a digestion method was applied to detect the metals As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn concentrations using an ICP OES. The objective was to assist future activities of integrated solid waste management and soil pollution. Results showed different particle sizes comparing the input (44.6%) and the output MSW (75.1%) passing through the 100-mm sieve. Organic matter and ash contents indicated the influence of inorganic carbon due to the plastics' presence, with values varying between 6 and 13%. The pH values obtained were neutral and the electrical conductivity of the MSW rejects suggested a higher amount of ions, with values above 1000 µS/cm. Metals analyses show that Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn are present in high concentrations, depending on the types of the materials. Standard Proctor compaction curves yielded maximum dry unit weight varying from 6.6 to 10.0 kN/m3 and optimum moisture contents from 20 to 42%. Cohesion ranged from 1.3 to 31.3 kPa and friction angle from 3.2 to 42.9°. The results are comparable with those obtained for other countries using different MSW treatments and contribute to the data basis for MSW from the selective collection, aiming the integrated solid waste management, serving for other countries that adopt MSW sorting and recycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Home care services (HCS) are important to assist patients with difficulties in accessing conventional health services. Nevertheless, in times of COVID-19 pandemic, the traditionally offered service needs to be restructured to protect health professionals, patients and their families. In this context, this article aims to identify the impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic on home medical waste management (MWM), converting threats into opportunities, and weaknesses into management strengths. Three months before the pandemic (from October to December), a comprehensive survey was conducted on the practices of home care services and MWM with health professionals, caregivers and patients in Caruaru (Brazil). Quali-quantitative information was collected by structured and semi-structured interviews. For evaluation, the SWOT-TOWS analysis was applied to identify the threats and weaknesses of the practices of HCS and MWM, and to propose strategies to ensure the protection of public health and the environment. The results showed that the main weaknesses found were the lack of training of health professionals and the lack of guidance given by them to caregivers of patients, both related to MWM. Except for sharp waste, all other MWM practices have proved to be inadequate, posing threats, especially in a pandemic period. Four action strategies to improve HCS and MWM were identified: (i) providing MWM training to HCS personnel based on ISO standards; (ii) providing MWM information to caregivers and patients; (iii) planning actions to optimize the service during the pandemic; and (iv) sharing HCS management with municipal decision makers. Between December 2020 and January 2021, semi-structured interviews were performed only with health professionals, to verify the impacts and changes that have occurred in HCS in the COVID-19 pandemic. Comparing the results of the two surveys, improvements were achieved, including the incorporation during the pandemic of some strategies identified in the first phase of the research. Implications: Home care service plays a fundamental role in the quality of life of patients and in the sustainability of the public health system in Brazil. In the pandemic period, HCS was impacted with routine changes and the adoption of new personal protective equipment. Our results showed the need to promote strategies to improve HCS to preserve the health of professionals and patients attended, in the pandemic and post-pandemic period. The strategies identified in the study contributed to improvements in the provision of the service and in the management of medical waste that is still inadequate. Such issues are of interest to municipal health management, which has adopted some of the suggested strategies. The thousands of HCS distributed in Brazilian municipalities can also adopt the strategic actions resulting from this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare waste management is a critical aspect of public health and environmental protection, particularly in establishments such as dental clinics. This study examined the dental clinic waste (DCW) management processes in clinics within the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Utilizing data from Healthcare Waste Management Plans (HCWMP) provided by the Urban Cleaning Superintendence, the study investigated waste generation, segregation, storage, collection, treatment, and final disposal practices. The results revealed that hazardous DCW represented a significant portion (26.5 %) of waste generated in dental clinics, exceeding the World Health Organization's recommended threshold. Biological waste (22.9 %), mainly consisting of cotton, gauze, and gloves contaminated with blood or body fluids, was the most generated hazardous waste group, followed by chemical (2.2 %) and sharps waste (1.3 %). Incineration was the predominant treatment method for hazardous DCW, raising concerns about environmental impacts and greenhouse gas emissions. Non-hazardous waste, primarily destined for landfills, had limited recycling rates (2.4 %), emphasizing the need for improved waste management strategies to minimize environmental impacts and increase circular economy. Challenges in DCW management included inadequate segregation practices, limited recycling initiatives, and incomplete HCWMPs lacking descriptions of waste management beyond establishment boundaries. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive training programs, strengthened regulations, and increased environmental awareness among healthcare professionals. In conclusion, improving DCW management in dental clinics is crucial for mitigating occupational and environmental risks. Collective efforts are needed to enhance waste segregation, promote recycling, and ensure compliance with regulations, ultimately safeguarding public health and the environment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

This article presents the Index of Disaster Risk by Flooding (IDRF) in Paraiba state, Brazil, considering different levels of socioenvironmental vulnerability and flooding susceptibility areas. The methodology performed a social variables combination subdivided into income, infrastructure, and social situation components; environmental variables (drainage network proximity, declivity, and intense rainfall); and frequency of hydro-meteorological disasters registered in Paraiba's rainfall homogeneous regions. Twenty-four cities were classified as very high and high IDRF. These cities show physical and natural characteristics that shape how flooding is triggered. Also, the cities do not adequately ensure access to housing, potable water, sanitary sewage, solid waste collection and disposal, electric service, education, and other guarantees for social equity. A more effective understanding of socio-environmental vulnerability conditions in Paraiba by considering the environmental susceptibilities and social vulnerabilities at the cities' level will enable significantly advances to socio-environmental planning and disaster risk management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira em Promoção da Saúde is the property of Revista Brasileira em Promocao da Saude and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)