Avaliação gravimétrica de resíduos sólidos coletados em praias da cidade do Rio de Janeiro e auditoria de marcas dos resíduos plásticos

Abstract

Marine anthropogenic waste, defined as all durable solid waste of industrial or processed origin released, left, or discarded in marine and coastal areas, represents a grave threat to the environment. Plastic contamination represents a significant environmental concern on a global scale, particularly with regard to its impact on coastal ecosystems. The central objective of this thesis dissertation is to perform the gravimetric analysis of solid waste collected in the sands of the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, namely Praia do Flamengo, Leme, Ramos and Barra da Tijuca, with collections carried out between February 15, 2024 and July 25, 2024. The specific objectives are as follows: The objective of this study is to classify and quantify waste samples by categories according to the material of their general composition. The materials to be considered include, but are not limited to, plastic, paper, glass, metal, and organic materials. The samples will be visually classified and quantified based on the type of resin used in their manufacture. In addition, the plastic waste will be classified according to the manufacturer in order to obtain an order of the companies with the largest amount of plastic waste in the sands of the beaches studied. Gravimetric analysis was performed by collecting samples, which were subsequently sent to the gravimetric analysis laboratory of the Municipal Urban Cleaning Company (COMLURB) in Vargem Pequena, Rio de Janeiro. The research revealed the composition of solid waste, with an emphasis on the prevalence of plastics, glass, and other non-biodegradable materials. Contrary to predictions, the results also revealed that, on certain beaches, other materials such as glass and coconut were more predominant than plastics. Furthermore, the classification of plastics according to their manufacturer enabled the identification of the primary contributors to local pollution. The findings underscore the pressing need for enhanced solid waste management, underscoring the significance of implementing reverse logistics systems and effective public policies to mitigate the impact of plastics on coastal ecosystems. This study makes a significant contribution to the ongoing discourse on sustainability.