Development of a Waste Management Program in Technical Chemistry Teaching

The general objective of this study was to analyze the development and implementation process of a waste management project (WMP) at a public school in the city of Porto Alegre in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, that offers a course for chemistry technicians. To that end, an initial diagnostic analysis of the commonly produced waste from the practical classes was carried out, and a WMP was developed to meet the needs of the technical course in order to minimize the waste produced during experimental activities and provide instructions for its adequate disposal. Additionally, teachers and students attended training courses for guidance on waste separation and identification procedures. The use of questionnaires before and after the implementation of the WMP and the training courses showed an increased level of awareness of the individuals involved throughout the study. The results provide evidence that the existence of a WMP in the school improves environmental awareness of critical professionals and citizens, who are responsible and aware of their role in society.