Diagnosis of urban solid waste management

The aim of this study was to diagnose the urban solid waste management system in the city of Belém do Brejo do Cruz-PB, identifying its main shortcomings and proposing measures to increase its efficiency and sustainability. To this end, interviews were carried out with the sector responsible for waste management and a survey was carried out among the population, using a questionnaire, to analyze residents' perceptions of the collection, transport, treatment and final disposal processes. The results showed that, although the city has regular collection and landfill disposal, there are still limitations in terms of infrastructure, the number of vehicles and the staff available. It was also observed that the population has only partial knowledge about the separation and correct disposal of waste, but is interested in collaborating to improve the service. Therefore, the implementation of environmental education programs, expansion of the collection team and fleet, as well as incentives for separation and recycling, could contribute to a more efficient and sustainable operation of the system.