Economia Circular: Uma Análise Econômica da Destinação de Resíduos Sólidos Urbanos no Brasil

Abstract

This study investigates the factors that influence the household solid waste disposal methods in Brazil, within the context of the circular economy. Using data from the 2015 PNAD (Brazilian National Household Sample Survey), a multinomial logit econometric model was estimated to identify how socioeconomic and regional variables affect the likelihood of households adopting proper waste disposal practices. The results reveal that higher education levels, higher income, and being female significantly increase the probability of adopting adequate waste management (direct collection). In contrast, residents in the North and Northeast regions are more prone to environmentally harmful practices such as burning or discarding waste in open areas. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted public policies to universalize adequate waste management services across the country and promote environmental awareness, particularly in underserved regions. The study contributes to the literature on urban sustainability and the development of circular economy strategies in Brazil.