Logística reversa em instituições de ensino superior públicas: aprimorando o processo na gestão socioambiental

Abstract

The present study aims to propose improvement actions in reverse logistics at the Federal University of Santa Maria (FUSM), in order to contribute to socioenvironmental management regarding the generation, disposal and environmentally appropriate of solid waste in the Institution. To achieve the proposed objectives, a multidestination case study was used as a method, with descriptive analysis and a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through documentary research and the application of semistructured interviews to managers responsible for Environmental Management at the following universities: Federal University of Santa Maria, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Federal University of It ajubá, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro . The results showed positive aspects, the result of recent advances in legislation and changes in habits, with regard to environmental issues in Universities, highlighting project initiatives for composting or ganic waste; availability of Voluntary Delivery Points (PEVs) for the collection of waste such as batteries and vegetable oils; establishment of partnerships with companies for the collection of certain items and with cooperatives of recyclable material co llectors, among others. On the other hand, weaknesses were found in aspects that could be improved, the main ones referring to separation and (in) correct disposal; the lack of awareness of the academic community and senior management and investments; the difficulty in collecting, storing and transporting waste; the low level of recycling of dry and organic waste. Among the proposals for improving the reverse logistics process for FUSM, there is an increase in the availability and transparency of informatio n for the academic population on solid waste, its correct disposal, selective collection, advances and benefits of these actions; improve the solidary selective collection process with improvements in the available bins and collectors, and also, monitor co llection and transport, weighing them; definitively implement reverse logistics in contracts made and promote shared responsibility with manufacturers, traders and suppliers; to encourage and train the work carried out by recyclable collectors in the munic ipality; to constantly strengthen environmental education at the University (students, professors, outsourced workers) and among the general population; and finally, seek partnership with the municipal government and other entities to improve the managemen t of solid waste and the implementation of reverse logistics.