Characterization and management of waste generated in the improvement of corn seeds

Abstract

The study aimed to characterize the waste generated in the Corn Seed Processing Unit and to promote management alternatives to its destination. The activities in the unit were monitored to collect data regarding the waste generated in the processing stages, from the reception of corn on the cob to the storage of seeds, in seven lots, randomly selected at the reception of the trucks in the period January/February 2018. For the mapping of solid waste generation, the information survey, the characterization of the waste generated, through the gravimetric composition and classification followed the criteria of NBR 10.004 and 10.007. Regarding the amount and types of residues, the generation of Class II solid residues predominates, most of them recyclable and with the potential to reduce production costs; there is a need for consent regarding selective collection, especially in relation to Class I solid residues, and training to encourage employees for an integrated solid residue management. In the technical and environmental spheres, the reuse of residues generated at the BHU as byproducts of seed production presents itself with a great capacity to solve part of the environmental problems caused by the process, as a source of energy, animal feed, and plant substrate to generate income and reduce costs. The mapping of the waste generated in the production of seeds in the UBS allowed pointing out restrictions and solutions considering economic and environmental parameters for an efficient environmental management program.