Ecopoints and Reverse Logistics: A Study of Unserviceable Tire Management in Contagem, Minas Gerais
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: The objective of this research is to describe the evolution of Brazilian legislation regarding reverse logistics, identify the connection between Ecopoints (collection points) and their technologies in municipal waste management, and describe the records made available by the Contagem City Hall in the management of tires and pneumatic waste through Ecopoints, with special attention to the data from the periods recorded by the Contagem City Hall in 2013, 2015, and 2023, as well as the period from 2014 to 2022 for tire collection in reports provided by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources. Theoretical Framework: Regarding the theoretical foundation, emphasis was placed on the relationship between solid waste and the growing environmental and population issue, and the means of addressing the environmental issue through reverse logistics. The research presented in this article has a qualitative approach and aims to outline actions for the management of unserviceable waste in Contagem, Minas Gerais, focusing on actions linked to reverse logistics and the final destination of unserviceable waste, especially tires and pneumatic waste, through collection points. This research made use of legal documents responsible for regulating activities, which serve as the basis for the execution of public management in the municipality. Method: The research methodology consisted of documentary research and considered a literature review in books, articles, and legislation, using the descriptors "waste," "unserviceable," "tires," and "management" through the worldwide electronic research network, without date restrictions. Thus, the national history of legislation related to the theme was identified, as well as the state legislation and the legislation that the municipality of Contagem, Minas Gerais, uses for the management of unserviceable waste and reverse logistics. In addition, contact was made via email with the Contagem City Hall, and data were collected through the State Solid Waste Policy. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed an evolution in Brazilian legislation on reverse logistics, with emphasis on the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS) and its updates. The analysis of data from Contagem-MG showed variations in tire collection between 2013-2015 and 2014-2021, indicating challenges in continuous management. Contextualizing with the theoretical framework, the research highlights the importance of technology and environmental education in waste management, according to Feenberg and Diamond. Discrepancies in the data and limitations in geographical scope point to the need for broader studies and standardization in data collection. Research Implications: The main field of study of this research is the management of unserviceable waste at the municipal level, through the analysis of data identified in channels of the Contagem City Hall and at the national level, since records of waste management actions are carried out in all areas. These implications may cover the interest of institutions that carry out unserviceable waste recycling actions and that analyze data from collections carried out at the municipal level as a metric parameter to identify the feasibility of public-private partnerships. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how municipalities can inspire improvements in waste management, promoting a healthier environment for the population. Environmental education actions and encouraging citizen collaboration in the correct disposal at collection points are highlighted as effective strategies to avoid illegal disposals and boost reverse logistics. The detailed analysis of management in Contagem-MG offers a replicable model, encouraging other cities to adopt sustainable practices and improve their waste management systems. This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how municipalities can inspire improvements in waste management, promoting a healthier environment for the population. Environmental education actions and encouraging citizen collaboration in the correct disposal at collection points are highlighted as effective strategies to avoid illegal disposals and boost reverse logistics. The detailed analysis of management in Contagem-MG offers a replicable model, encouraging other cities to adopt sustainable practices and improve their waste management systems.
Language: English
Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4409471001