Atuação dos catadores de materiais recicláveis e reutilizáveis a partir da experiência da ASCAMAR em São Luís-MA

Abstract

The research analyzes the environmental issue, focusing on problems arising from the relationship with solid waste in São Luís, in the context of contemporary Maranhão, considering the period from 2004 to 2022. With emphasis on the work of collectors of recyclable and reusable materials organized in associations, specifically associated with the Maranhão Collectors Association (ASCAMAR). Recognizing waste pickers as key players in solid waste management, in accordance with the National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS), the reflection highlights the working conditions of these professionals. Through bibliographical, database and field research, with interviews carried out with collectors and president of ASCAMAR. We highlight as main results the importance of these considerations within the scope of geography to understand the relationship between society, nature and production of solid waste. The inadequate final disposal of municipal solid waste, the presence of collectors in landfills, exposure to risks, social stigmas and devaluation of recycled material are challenges faced by collectors in the state of Maranhão. The analysis also addresses the role of the associative forms (associations/cooperatives) of waste pickers in the state, which can represent an advance in the defense of their rights and in the promotion of the solidarity economy, however the conditions to which they are subjected, the exploitation of middlemen, low prices and indigenous working conditions persist as a reality in the state. In São Luís the number of associated collectors has been decreasing, although the number of associations has grown, these associations operate in precarious conditions and need more support from the public authorities to develop their activities. ASCAMAR, an association of collectors, has been operating in São Luís for 20 years. In 2024, it carried out its activities in a sorting warehouse provided by the city hall, receiving recyclable materials sent to recycling bins, cardboard from hospitals, paper from federal public bodies, and established partnership with state and city departments. The main types of materials sold are cardboard, paper and plastic, these materials are sold with local companies that resell them, sending them to the states of Pará, Ceará, São Paulo and Santa Catarina. Among the profile of associated collectors is the strong female presence, one of the main motivations for working in the association is unemployment, in addition to deficits in school levels. The collector's income is less than the minimum wage, without guarantee funds, and without receiving any type of financial support from the city hall or the state. Although they carry out activities of socio-environmental relevance, they are made invisible by public authorities and society.