Alternativa para o gerenciamento dos resíduos orgânicos da feira livre de Goiana, Pernambuco: proposta para implantação de um pátio de compostagem

Abstract

The open-air market of Goiana, Pernambuco, plays a key role in food supply and in the local economy. However, it faces major challenges in managing organic waste, especially from the commercialization of fruits, vegetables, and greens. The absence of an effective selective collection system and the inadequate disposal of this waste lead to significant environmental, sanitary, and social impacts, in addition to overburdening the landfill and reducing its lifespan. In this context, the general objective of this research was to analyze a sustainable alternative for managing the organic waste generated at the Goiana market, in accordance with the principles of the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12.305/2010). As a solution, the implementation of a composting yard was proposed, using the method developed by the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), which applies static piles with passive aeration— characterized by low cost, simple operation, high efficiency, and strong potential for replication in similar urban contexts. The project was designed based on the guidelines of the Foundation for Research and Innovation Support of the State of Santa Catarina (FAPESC, 2017) and the technical recommendations of Inácio and Miller (2009). The methodology combined qualitative and quantitative approaches, with an exploratory character and field study. Techniques included bibliographic review, document analysis, systematic observation, field visits, and discussion groups with market vendors. Data collection took place through technical visits to the Secretariat of General Maintenance, Supply and Public Services, as well as on-site visits to the market. The analysis considered practices of waste generation, disposal, and management, along with the characterization of vendors and the physical infrastructure of the market. The final stage consisted of developing an executive project with technical and operational guidelines for the implementation of the composting yard, tailored to the local reality. Results showed that 62.5% of the 40 interviewed vendors are adult women working in trade, highlighting the female protagonism in the market context. It was also identified that around 70% of the waste generated is organic, averaging 2,400 kg per week. Most of this waste is improperly discarded, causing impacts such as soil and groundwater contamination, greenhouse gas emissions, proliferation of disease vectors, and obstruction of urban drainage systems. The technical analysis demonstrated that, when properly treated, the market’s organic waste can generate between 1,020 kg and 1,700 kg of compost per cycle for each pile. Based on these findings, a technical project was developed, including pile sizing, drainage system, operational management, reuse of leachate as biofertilizer, and strategies for the allocation of the organic compost. The material can be applied in public squares, urban agriculture, and community projects, strengthening the circular economy. The proposal contributes to mitigating environmental impacts, reducing landfill burden, fostering environmental education, and promoting sustainable development, generating social, economic, and ecological benefits for the municipality of Goiana