Title: Benchmarking of integrated sustainable waste management in medium-sized Brazilian cities

Authors: Valdir Eduardo Olivo; Eduardo Pavan Korf; Pedro Domingos Marques Prietto

Addresses: University of Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil ' Federal University of Fronteira Sul, Erechim, RS, Brazil ' University of Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil

Abstract: Integrated and sustainable solid waste management (ISWM) is a key factor in ensuring environmental protection and the quality of services provided by municipalities. This study aimed to establish a set of benchmark indicators for evaluating the ISWM in medium-sized Brazilian cities, through the analysis of five municipalities that stood out in management practices. The research method was based on the use of 23 indicators, which contemplate the sociocultural, environmental, and economic dimensions of waste management. The selected cities showed a higher level of engagement in both social and environmental areas. Some improvement opportunities have been identified since only two cities present economic sustainability and none has an information system for local waste management. Practices focusing on reducing waste and, also on governance were highlighted and used as a reference for replication in other municipalities and to establish the exchange of experiences among different cities.

Keywords: sustainability; indicators; best practices; governance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWM.2025.146553

International Journal of Environment and Waste Management, 2025 Vol.37 No.2, pp.135 - 148

Accepted: 06 May 2023
Published online: 04 Jun 2025 *

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