SELECTIVE WASTE COLLECTION IN AMAZONIAN CITIES: IMPLICATIONS FROM THE IMPLEMENTATION OF VOLUNTARY DROP-OFF POINTS IN SANTARÉM (PA)

Abstract

This article aimed to characterize the socio-environmental profile of participating households, analyze the level of knowledge about concepts related to waste management, identify patterns associated with segregation and reuse practices, and discuss implications for public policies in medium-sized Amazonian cities. This is an evaluative study with a mixed-methods approach, predominantly quantitative, based on secondary data from the "Educate to Recycle" project, developed in Santarém (PA). The sample consisted of 3,009 household interviews conducted in areas with Voluntary Delivery Points (PEVs). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, with the application of the chi-square test (p<0.05). The results indicated a high level of environmental knowledge, contrasting with low adherence to household segregation (8%), highlighting a mismatch between knowledge and practice. A significant association was also observed between territory and reuse practices (p=0.026), with a higher frequency in specific areas. It is concluded that the provision of infrastructure, in isolation, is insufficient, and integration with educational strategies and territorially oriented actions is necessary to strengthen waste management in the Amazon.