ANÁLISE DAS FORMAS DE DESCARTE DE RESÍDUOS SÓLIDOS EM COMUNIDADE RURAL NO SUL DO PIAUÍ: ESTUDO DE CASO

Abstract

Solid waste management in rural communities is an environmental and public health challenge, exacerbated by the lack of adequate infrastructure. This study aimed to analyze the reality of the Fazenda do Meio community in Parnaguá, Piauí, regarding waste management and disposal practices. The research used a checklist to investigate whether there were indications of public collection of these materials, assess residents' disposal practices, and examine the environmental and health risks resulting from waste management. The results indicated that there is no waste collection service provided by the municipal government and that burning waste is the primary solution adopted by residents, contributing to air pollution, soil degradation, and potential health hazards. The study highlights the need for public policies to implement a sustainable waste management system adapted to local conditions. Additionally, it underscores the importance of raising public awareness about safe and environmentally responsible alternatives. Thus, it is concluded that the absence of appropriate waste collection services leads residents to adopt disposal practices that are harmful to the environment.