Gestão de resíduos químicos em universidades do Paraná: tratamento interno vs terceirizado

Abstract

The significant increase in waste production and the need for integrated and conscious management raise questions that must necessarily begin at academic centers. As professional educators, higher education institutions in Paraná need to implement measures to address the issue of waste generation and disposal in accordance with existing legal provisions. The objective of this study is to investigate the issues of chemical waste management produced in the chemistry laboratories of Paraná's universities, focusing on a comparative analysis between in-house and outsourced waste management. The research aims to identify the main challenges, costs, benefits, and risks associated with each management model, considering current environmental legislation, the specificities of waste generated in the academic context, and the institutions' infrastructure and human resources capabilities. Through a methodological approach that combines literature review, document analysis, and technical opinions from universities, the dissertation aims to provide support for strategic decision-making regarding the most efficient, safe, and sustainable way to manage university chemical waste in the state of Paraná. The analysis considered aspects such as the complexity of the legislation, the variety of waste generated, operational costs, the technical expertise required, the risks of accidents and contamination, and the potential for implementing minimization and treatment practices. As a result of this research, a guidance booklet was created on the legislation and sanctions applicable to Higher Education Institutions.