Global studies in waste management in mechanical workshops: evolution and future perspectives in the search for good practices

Abstract

The environmental impacts that we are currently facing worldwide are due to a system that uses all available resources as if they were unlimited and therefore an uncontrolled amount of garbage has been generated that is causing damage to the environment and consequently to human health. . In search of solutions to these problems, new ways of managing waste have been implemented, which are often not applied due to lack of knowledge of them. Mechanical shops offer a variety of services, from tire repairs to collision services, whether for light or heavy vehicles, or promote maintenance of mechanical systems in general. These services generate several types of solid waste , including rags contaminated with oils or solvents, plastic containers, old tires, oil, transmission or air filters; plastic and metal body parts, batteries, glass and residual sludge, mostly hazardous waste. In this context, the objective of the article was to carry out a scientific mapping on waste management in mechanical workshops, and in search of good practices. For this, a quantitative and qualitative bibliometrics was carried out. The results indicate that life cycle analysis is the most appropriate tool to define the best use of the waste generated (co-products), followed by management systems and tools and cleaner production. Continuous staff training is essential; to maintain more efficient processes that present returns within each business. The adoption of environmental or management certifications is a big step within each business, but in small mechanical workshops, good waste management is quite sufficient and significant.