PUBLIC POLICY FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAICWASTE IN RURAL BRAZIL

Abstract

The generation of electrical energy through photovoltaic (PV) systems has expanded globally over the last few years, driven mainly by environmental issues and government incentives. Concurrently, an increase in disposal of unusable PV equipment is expected. Because they are composed of different substances, improper discarding can represent an environmental problem, as the disposal process is commonly carried out in common landfills, partially due to the lack of a regulatory framework with clear guidelines for the management and disposal of this type of waste. Except for the Member States of the European Union, other territories have not set specific standards to deal with this situation. In Brazil, for example, the general guidelines from the National Solid Waste Policy apply; however, as it is a general legislation, it does not promote adequate management of PV waste. When considering the Brazilian rural environment, managing such waste tends to be even more challenging, especially due to the country’s territorial dimensions. It is possible to infer that, in the absence of clear and feasible guidelines, PV systems being installed on rural properties are more likely to be improperly discarded or incinerated (a common practice in rural areas), contributing to environmental pollution. The main objective of this thesis is to identify the main elements to be considered formulating a specific regulatory public policy for Brazil that covers adequate management of photovoltaic waste generated in rural areas. The specific aims are to: (i) investigate how the topic of PV waste management is being addressed by online news outlets in Brazil, identifying institutional pressures that influence a specific regulatory framework in the country; (ii) identify challenges and strategies that can be adopted for the correct management of PV waste in Brazil and to demonstrate how their adoption implies achieving sustainability (economic, environmental, and social); (iii) to conduct a discussion on the current regulatory scenario that tends to contemplate the management of PV waste, seeking directions for an incremental regulatory framework based on reverse logistics; and (iv) to provide strategic solutions for managing photovoltaic waste generated in rural areas based on the reverse logistics model, as recommended by the National Policy on Solid Waste. This thesis was conducted in four stages, each corresponding to a specific objective. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was used, with an epistemological stance of a functionalist nature. The execution of the first study was based on the analysis of news articles published online, and the data obtained were treated through content analysis. The findings suggest that the subject has been in the news, mainly related to three main aspects: (1) environmental protection, (2) new opportunities for profit, and (3) the need for a specific legal framework to conduct PV waste management in the country with greater efficiency. Regarding isomorphism, different pressures (external and internal) tend to induce Brazil to institute its own regulation. The second study was based on a systematic review using the PRISMA method. Based on the investigations, eight categories of challenges were identified (material design, infrastructure, and facilities; existing technology for recycling; behavioral issues; lack of incentive; economic unfeasibility; lack of information on the amount of PV waste; and absence of specific policies and regulations), along with nine possible strategies that can be adopted to develop a more assertive management model (partnerships; adherence to Extended Producer Responsibility; acknowledgement of the photovoltaic energy recycling market; development of awareness programs; investment in Research and Development; establishment of circular economies; financial incentives; development of a tracking system; and elaboration of specific regulations). The third study was developed in two stages: (1st) document analysis; and (2nd) a focus group with key stakeholders. The data collected underwent thematic content analysis and analysis of Collective Subject Discourse (DSC). Seven important elements in the formulation of a regulatory framework for Brazil were listed, namely: (i) responsibilities of the parties involved; (ii) incentives for compliance with reverse logistics; (iii) certifications; (iv) environmental education; (v) implementation of annual minimum collection targets; (vi) monitoring and information management; and (vii) penalties. The fourth study involved data collection through interviews with key stakeholders using a semi-structured script. The data were transcribed and analyzed through content analysis. Different strategies were identified to promote adequate management of photovoltaic waste generated in rural areas, which include: providing incentives; offering adequate infrastructure; formulating environmental education programs; setting monitoring and inspection systems and penalty mechanisms; offering technical support; training for co-op members; establishing an administrative unit to assist in compliance with rules, etc. The findings presented here tend to serve as a tool for other scholars on the subject to advance this discussion so they can develop an optimal model for Brazil’s reality.