What is selective collection?

You are familiar with selective collection, a widely used term for properly disposing of garbage, right? But do you really know what it means, how it works and what is its fundamental role in environmental development?

Well, these are just some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject and even before answering them, it is crucial to highlight that selective collection goes beyond the simple separation of waste. This is because, if poorly executed, it can cause damage to the environment.

If you want to learn more about it, you are in the right place. In this article, we will cover essential information about selective collection, how it works and, above all, its importance. Let’s go?

What is selective collection?

Selective collection is a system that collects solid waste, separating and collecting materials according to their characteristics and recycling possibilities.

In this process, the waste is divided into different containers or containers, generally identified by color, to facilitate separation and proper disposal.

The main objective of selective collection is to promote the recycling and reuse of materials, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills or incineration.

It contributes to preserving the environment, saving natural resources and reducing pollution.

Authorities selectively collect materials such as paper, plastic, glass and metal, but the variety can vary by region and recycling infrastructure.

The active participation of the population is essential, as they must properly separate waste in their homes or workplaces, allowing the correct use of recyclable materials and the reduction of environmental impacts.

How does selective collection work?

A solid waste collection system works with selective collection, where we separate recyclable materials from common waste to be sent for recycling and reuse.

The process may vary depending on the region and the available infrastructure, but generally involves the following steps:

Sensitization and awareness: The authorities inform the population about the importance of selective collection, its objectives and the benefits for the environment.

Distribution of educational materials: The authorities provide information materials, such as pamphlets, posters and booklets, to guide people on how to properly separate waste.

Implementation of collection points: Color-coded containers or containers are installed (generally blue for paper, red for plastic, green for glass and yellow for metal) in strategic locations, such as streets, squares and condominiums, so that people deposit recyclable materials separately.

Differentiated collection: The collection trucks travel the routes, separating the waste according to the color of the containers. Companies specializing in recycling receive recyclable and reusable materials, while common waste is sent to landfills.

Sorting and processing: In the recycling centers, operators sort and separate the materials collected for proper processing. They decontaminate the papers, shred the plastics, separate the glass by color and melt the metals, preparing them for recycling into new products.

Commercialization and reuse: Companies commercialize recycled materials and transform them into new products, such as recycled paper, plastic packaging, glass bottles and metal cans.

By adopting selective collection at home, you will be contributing to the preservation of the environment, the reduction of pollution and the economy of natural resources.

What is the importance of selective collection?

Selective collection plays a fundamental role in the balanced development of the environment and society. It contributes in many ways, such as:

Reduction of environmental impact: By separating and recycling materials, they are prevented from being discarded in landfills or incinerated, reducing soil, water and air pollution.

Saving natural resources: Recycling allows you to reuse materials, reducing the extraction of natural resources such as trees, minerals and oil.

Energy savings: The recycling process generally consumes less energy than producing new materials from virgin resources.

Creation of jobs: Selective collection and recycling create job opportunities, both in the collection and in the processing of recycled materials.

Contribution to the circular economy: Selective collection is part of a circular economy model, in which materials are reused and reintroduced into the production cycle, minimizing waste.

Conclusion

In summary, separate collection is essential for the environment and society. By separating and recycling materials, you reduce your environmental impact and save natural resources and energy.

In addition, the practice generates jobs and contributes to the circular economy, promoting balanced and sustainable development.

Therefore, by adopting selective collection at home, we are making a significant contribution to preserving the environment and building a more sustainable future for all.