Survey of solid waste generated in public use activities with overnight stay in São Francisco de Paula’s National Forest (RS, Brasil)

Abstract

The interest in outdoor activities that involve contact with nature has been growing in Brazil, reflecting an increasing appreciation for the natural attractions present in various regions of the country. In this context, protected areas play an important role in offering nature tourism, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and seeking to balance environmental conservation with visitors' experiences. An example of this integration is the municipality of São Francisco de Paula in Rio Grande do Sul, whose National Forest (FLONA) welcomes tourists for various outdoor activities, always aiming to minimize negative environmental impacts. To better understand the effects of these activities, especially regarding solid waste generation, a detailed monitoring was conducted between January and April 2024. This involved classifying and weighing the material produced by visitors during their stay in the area. The results indicated that the amount of waste generated is not related to the type of activity practiced nor the size of the visitor groups. Additionally, it was found that organic waste constitutes the largest portion of the material produced, while the practice of separating recyclable waste is still uncommon among users, even in protected areas. Based on these findings, it is recommended to implement composting practices at FLONA to ensure the proper disposal of organic waste and reduce the volume sent to landfills. This initiative could be expanded to other rural properties in the municipality with similar characteristics, especially those that also serve tourists through rural tourism or ecotourism. Furthermore, it is essential to strengthen environmental education efforts, providing information about the importance of separating and properly disposing of waste generated during activities in the area, thereby contributing to environmental conservation and raising visitors' awareness of their responsibility in preserving the environment.