Selective collection: Factors guiding the process based on the case study of a medium-sized city in Minas Gerais

Abstract

One of the crucial elements that determine the success or failure of Selective Collection Programs (SCPs) in the municipalities consists of popular participation, as this process depends directly on source separation. For this reason, studies that identify favorable or unfavorable conditions for this participation are of utmost importance for SCP planning. However, there is a gap in this type of research in the Brazilian context. In this scenario, this study aimed at identifying, based on the residents' perceptions, the demographic, motivation and barrier factors that influence the decision to separate solid waste at source in the urban area of a medium-sized city and, taking these perceptions into account, propose alternatives to increase SCP efficiency. To achieve this goal, a questionnaire survey was conducted, with the sample defined by a random probability method of three-stage cluster sampling. A total of 850 questionnaires were considered valid, with 95% confidence interval, 3% error margin and 78% maximum variability. It was found that the main determinants for the decision to separate waste at source were age group, schooling level, environmental quality, domestic and public area infrastructures, lack of time and amount of solid waste generated. It was also observed that 82% of the population already carry out some type of solid waste segregation and that 86.82% are willing to participate in SCPs. Therefore, it is recommended to adapt the language and communication means used in the programs according to the target audience, considering accessibility and understanding of each one. The current study corroborates the future applicability of selective collection programs as a sustainability tool for solid waste management, encouraging further research in this area and as a basis for structuring environmental education programs focused on selective collection.