Analysis of the sustainability of selected recyclable materials cooperatives: alternatives for the treatment of urban solid waste

Abstract

This article aims to analyze and compare three cooperatives of recyclable materials in the metropolitan region of Maringá, Paraná state, with regard to the evolution of quantities, prices, revenues and remuneration of the members. The object of study is justified by the decrease in natural resources and incorrect disposal of solid waste, which has worried public policy makers. Recycling emerged as a model that allows reducing the consumption of natural resources, as well as reducing pollution. Environmental agents have joined recycling cooperatives, through cooperative work and using the principles of solidarity economy, which has generated income for several members, who participate in the collection, separation and commercialization of these materials. As main results, it can be seen that costs increased in the period, driven mainly by variable costs; revenues, directly influenced by the amount of materials separated and sold, as well as hours worked, showed a stable trend. The participation of the public authorities through the contracting of services for the separation and disposal of solid waste from the cooperatives contributed positively to the financial result, which enabled a higher income earned by the members.