Eficiência e sustentabilidade na gestão de resíduos: proposta de um modelo de seleção de técnicas de compostagem

Abstract

Composting has been increasingly recognized as a sustainable alternative for organic waste treatment, providing both environmental and economic benefits. However, selecting the most suitable system for each location depends on multiple technical, social, and financial factors, making it necessary to apply decision-support methods. This study proposes a composting technique selection model using a combination of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to define criteria weights and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to rank alternatives. The methodology applied in the case studie considers three possible methods: manually turned windrows, aerated static windrows, and controlled reactors. The evaluation included sub-criteria such as implementation and operation costs, compost quality, and team engagement. The results demonstrated that the multi-criteria approach provided a structured and well-founded analysis, enabling the identification of the system that best meets the needs of each decision-maker. The proposed model reduced the subjectivity of the decision-making process, facilitating a simpler and more efficient choice. In the case of large companies focused on reducing disposal costs, the precision and efficiency of Controlled Reactors stood out. For small properties, the most relevant factor was the cost-effectiveness of Aerated Static Piles, which also proved to be ideal in educational environments due to their ability to promote environmental engagement. It was concluded that the combined use of AHP and TOPSIS can be a valuable tool for companies seeking to implement composting practices strategically.