Gerenciamento de resíduos sólidos orgânicos na Guiné-Bissau: caso do mercado de Caracol

Abstract

It is difficult to imagine a world without solid waste production, especially in light of population growth, population concentration in urban areas, and the rapid pace of occupation of these spaces. As a consequence, we are seeing significant growth in the volume of solid waste, especially organic waste from food scraps. In this scenario, countries with weaker economies face greater difficulties in properly managing this waste. Guinea-Bissau presents a similar situation, with major limitations in the treatment of its organic solid waste. Considering this, this research aims to evaluate the organic solid waste management process in the Caracol Market. Methodologically, this is an exploratory-descriptive case study with a qualitative approach. To ground the theoretical discussions, a bibliographic review was conducted to identify the main debates on organic solid waste in the context of markets. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with users of the Caracol Market and representatives of the Bissau City Council, in addition to the application of open-ended and multiple-choice questionnaires. For data analysis, Bardin’s content analysis technique was used, its results being systematized in graphs. The results demonstrated that the management of organic solid waste at the Caracol Market occurs in an inadequate way, as there is no selective collection system, with organic and inorganic solid waste being discarded together. We also found a lack of infrastructure and adequate receptacles, which is one of the biggest challenges faced by market users, who are forced to adopt improvised and incorrect discard practices. Although the interviewees recognize the benefits of proper organic solid waste management for the community, they do not adopt correct practices due to a lack of incentives, equipment, and commitment on the part of the institution responsible for cleaning, in this case, the Bissau City Council. Therefore, the implementation of a selective waste collection system at the Caracol Market is evident, separating organic and inorganic waste to ensure greater efficiency in disposal and reuse, reducing environmental impacts, and promoting public health. To achieve this goal, it is recommend installing appropriate containers, training market users, and promoting educational activities to ensure proper disposal of this waste, as this study lacks these practices.