Reverse logistics of empty pesticide containers: solution or a problem?

Abstract

Pesticide residues has become a serious environmental concern due to the intensification of agricultural production, its universal use and the risk of contamination. It is an issue that is inserted in the dichotomy between the search for increased food production, waste generation and environmental preservation. There are two main objectives for this work. First, the descriptive analysis of the reverse logistics (RL) of empty pesticide containers (EPCs) as it is practiced under the Campo Limpo system (Brazil) so that the factors enabling its success are identified. Second, the proposal of strategies to improve the collection system. Technical visits and a system dynamics approach were combined, using the Behaviour Over Time graph and a causal loop model to describe the problem and propose strategies. Results indicate three key areas of the Campo Limpo system that can be improved: producer awareness, alternative means of returning containers and data transparency. Small and medium producers are more penalised in the return process due to the lack of information, difficulty in accessing disposal centres and the cost of transportation.