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Check out the step-by-step instructions for implementing selective collection in condominiums

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Selective collection in condominiums is nothing more than the collection of waste after prior separation by apartments (or houses) according to the type of waste. The collected waste can be recyclable (metal, paper, cardboard, plastic, milk carton and others) or rejects (non-recyclable). And selective collection can be done door-to-door (public or private service) or by voluntary delivery point (PEVs).

Although the concepts of recycling and selective collection are not new to most of the population, they still find it difficult to establish themselves in practice. Even though many people are not in the habit of separating the different types of garbage in their own homes, many already use the service in food courts and in some commercial buildings, where the separation of materials is done through bins differentiated by color, which indicate which recyclable materials should be separated from common garbage at the time of disposal (learn more about this topic in the article "Do you know the difference between waste and reject?").

Some residential buildings have already made selective collection a standard, but many condominiums are still looking to put this system into practice and find it difficult to know how and where to start.

To help make it easier to implement selective collection, the eCycle portal provides below a basic guide on how to start selective collection in condominiums:

1. Space and awareness
2. Define which materials will be collected
3. Awareness of the importance of correct disposal
4. storage location
5. Beware of papers and plastics
6. Training for those responsible
7. Periodically remove materials

Space and awareness in condominiums

First of all, it is necessary to remember that recycling can only be implemented if there is adequate space and conditions. Defining which materials will be collected and guiding employees not to mix bags of different types of waste are the first steps. Next, residents and employees should be made aware of the importance of proper disposal, as some people have little or no interest in the matter.

During the entire process, it is important to keep residents informed about the steps being taken to implement selective collection, the changes that will be made, the results of the project and its maintenance.

In the Recycling Guide section here of the eCycle portal you can build on it to promote an awareness campaign. Articles on "Garbage: a serious problem in the modern world", how long it takes to decompose, the reasons for recycling and how to be conscientious in consumption are part of the guide.

For the continuity of the project, it is important that the residents of the condominiums perceive the results and feel encouraged to carry out selective collection. Therefore, it is ideal to provide monitoring data by contacting the destination of materials and analyzing the quantity and quality of recyclable materials generated by condominiums.

Three steps before selective collection

The Brazilian Association of Condominiums (Abracond) points out three important issues to be observed before starting selective collection:

1. Storage location

Checking the amount of materials generated by condominiums is an essential part of planning. After this evaluation and the choice of space for storage and disposal flow by the residents, it will be necessary to define how many collectors will be placed and which models will be, make budgets for the purchase or think about relocating collectors that the condominium already has. It is necessary that the environment is always clean and closed to avoid bad smells and the entry of rats, cockroaches, mosquitoes and other animals that may contribute to the emergence of diseases. One solution used by some buildings is the use of plastic containers, equipment that is easier to manage. The firefighters' rule prohibits the disposal of any object in the passage of stairs. Thus, collectors in the hall service on each floor are inadequate. The most suitable option for the proper disposal of selective collection is to place the containers close to the service elevators, or relocate them underground and in the vicinity of the garage.

2. Beware of papers and plastics

You must be very careful with papers and plastics, as they are highly combustible materials and can cause fires. Because of this, insurers must be notified so that there is compensation compatible with the accident that occurred. If there is no contact, the insurance company can allege omission on the part of the condominium, creating more problems for everyone involved.

3. Training for those responsible

Another important question is about who is responsible for handling the materials. Cleaners must receive training, use the proper equipment, receive unhealthy pay and other measures to prevent injury and more serious occurrences.

Who is responsible for the collection?

After taking care of these three points, the implementation of selective collection can be started when it is defined who will be responsible for periodically removing materials from the condominiums. It is necessary to define the frequency, days of the week and times so as not to accumulate materials in the condominium beyond the storage capacity.

If your condominium is not covered by the municipal selective collection or this collection is not enough, one option is to hire a collection company or seek partnership with cooperatives to remove the material. Depending on the amount of material offered, cooperatives may be interested in collecting.

Another option is to take the waste to the Voluntary Delivery Points (PEVs) which vary in size and can accept different items. Collection stations and cooperatives are present in our recycling stations section, where you can find addresses and contacts for the places closest to your home. Learn more in the article: "Selective collection points: see where to take your waste".

Public service participation in collection

In many cities in the country, city halls, through competent bodies, have a selective collection service that serves buildings and homes of residents after contacting and requesting.

Companies specializing in collection

To facilitate the implementation of selective collection and conscientious waste management, there are specialized companies that offer specific planning for condominiums that will be able to enable selective collection in your building. The cost/benefit ratio ends up paying off, considering the increased efficiency of the process, in addition to other benefits.

In São Paulo, a company that operates in the selective collection segment is Instituto Muda. Since 2007, they have been carrying out the diagnosis and the project to adapt the necessary infrastructure for packaging recyclables. The implementation includes lectures and training, collection of recyclable materials, monthly waste report, in addition to a certificate of correct disposal.

If you are interested in the work of Instituto Muda and would like to make a quotation for the management of your condominium, fill out the form below and a representative will contact you: