Evaluation of the construction waste management in the state of São Paulo, Brazil

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) constitute the major part of the solid waste generated globally. Although most CDW can be recycled, recycling rates in Brazil remain low, and the information on the management of this waste in municipalities is insufficient. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the management of CDW in the state of São Paulo by using secondary data. Among the 645 municipalities in the state, 31 do not own Municipal or Intermunicipal Integrated Solid Waste Management Plans, and 14 plans do not provide information on CDW. CDW generation is highly correlated with population and GDP. Gravimetric analysis indicated that, on average, 87.75% of CDW are Class A materials, apt to recyclable. However, improper disposal is frequent, with many municipalities disposing CDW in irregular areas and conducting direct reuse without proper segregation and processing. Only 32% of municipalities send part of their CDW to recycling plants or appropriate landfills. The implementation of collection points has been limited in the state. This study highlights the urgent need for improvements in CDW management in São Paulo, including expanding recycling and implementing more effective collection and disposal systems.

Keywords:
Diagnosis of CDW; Proper disposal; Solid waste management; Sustainability