Implementing Improvements in Solid Waste Management during a Pandemic: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic not only severely impacted global health, but also triggered a less visible crisis in solid waste management. In the midst of fighting an invisible enemy, institutions and households began to produce unprecedented volumes of waste. This situation not only posed significant logistical challenges, but also posed serious risks to public health and environmental balance. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of the pandemic on the generation and management of household waste, as well as to evaluate the measures implemented to protect waste collectors through personal protective equipment and to improve the management of this waste. The methodology used was a systematic review of the literature. Fifty open access documents were selected from the Scopus database, according to specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings revealed a significant increase in waste production, particularly plastics, accompanied by a decrease in proper segregation, recycling and disposal processes, mainly due to the general increase in waste generated. It is concluded that efficient solid waste management, based on proper segregation and education and awareness, not only protects collection personnel by reducing their exposure to hazardous materials, but also improves treatment and recycling processes, reducing the accumulation of contaminated waste.