Pro-environmental behavior and selective collection: a case study with Cariacica (ES, Brazil) residents

PRO-ENVIRONMENTAL BEHAVIOR AND SELECTIVE COLLECTION: A CASE STUDY WITH CARIACICA-ESPÍRITO SANTO RESIDENTS

Abstract

Accelerated population growth, coupled with an exacerbated consumption pattern, has triggered a significant increase in waste production, as well as alarming problems caused by inadequate waste disposal on a global scale. The problems related to excess waste are many, namely: diseases, degradation of nature, extinction of species among other aspects. Few people are concerned with environmental issues, nor is there any interest in minimizing natural disasters. In the meantime, this paper aims to investigate the view of residents of the municipality of Cariacica (ES), about the relevance of selective collection as a pro-environmental action. This is a qualitative and quantitative study, based on a case study, with questionnaires applied to residents living in nine different districts of the city. From the collected data it was possible to apprehend that the residents of the investigated region, show little involvement / commitment with the proper disposal of the garbage. In addition, the lack of information and environmental awareness actions makes most respondents unaware of aspects related to recycling or waste separation, which makes it difficult to carry out a selective collection action. Given this scenario, it is necessary that the municipality develops environmental awareness actions integrated with incentive programs, enabling the dissemination of information and training, to then transform people in their attitudinal and ethical aspects.