THE PRODUCTION OF URBAN SOLID WASTES: PERSISTING SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES FOR PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

Concern on urban solid wastes (USW) became relevant as the increasing urban population increased its consumption level and the consequent need for disposal of wastes within a correct ecological stance in urban spaces. Further, the environmental impact caused by incorrect disposal of USW became a concern for Brazilian public management and for society as a whole. Although the public departments responsible for USW used all technical, financial and political efforts to minimize the conflicts generated, social and environmental challenges are on the increase. Current research analyzes the efforts of the public administration on USW in the metropolitan region of Curitiba focusing on two sanitary landfills. USW management is highly complex on global and local scales. Results show that Brazilian municipalities experience great difficulties in complying with Law 12.305/2010, imposing deadlines for the construction of landfills in all municipalities. Although great progress has been achieved, several social and environmental challenges have to be overcome by public administrations and by society.