Resíduos sólidos em território indígena Iauaretê: impactos e desafios

Abstract

This study examines the problem of solid waste in the Upper Rio Negro region, especially in Iauaretê, where it has accumulated as an open-air garbage dump. This problem dates back to the process of political, religious and cultural colonization, which disregarded the socio-cultural processes of the indigenous peoples of the Rio Negro. In this process, new habits were introduced into indigenous education through the construction of missionary schools, churches, lodgings, and even with the arrival of the Brazilian Army, new forms of consumption and lifestyles were adopted. These changes resulted in the introduction of industrialized products into their daily lives, such as plastic packaging, canned goods and disposable items, which were previously non-existent in these regions. Local leaders mobilized the communities to seek partnerships with the local government in order to build a sanitary landfill in this region, a demand that has not been met to date. The methodology of this study followed the guidelines of qualitative approaches without excluding quantitative aspects. The fieldwork was based on documentary research with the PGTA documents from COIDI, without neglecting to check the legislation relating to the treatment of solid waste and the environment. We also carried out hemerographic research, in which we collected data from official websites and public bodies, as well as empirical data. Among the findings was the fact that there have been few initiatives to minimize environmental impact by the municipal authorities and the DSEI-ARN with regard to the open dump. We also found that no attention was paid to the demands of the residents of Iauaretê for the construction of a sanitary landfill, which is a suitable facility for disposing of solid waste. We therefore conclude that there is an extreme need for environmental education to be introduced in the schools and villages of the Iauaretê district, and that institutions need to work together with communities and local government to find solutions.