Sustainability and the Environment: The Importance of Biotechnology for Solid Waste Management

Objective: The objective of this research was to analyze the importance of biotechnology in solid waste management, highlighting its applications, benefits, challenges and barriers that hinder its large-scale implementation. Methodology: The research adopted an exploratory approach, using semi-structured interviews with 17 professionals in the field of waste management, biotechnology and sustainability. Data collection was carried out through these interviews, which allowed a qualitative analysis of the participants' perceptions, experiences and knowledge about the use of biotechnology in solid waste management. Data analysis followed the discourse analysis methodology, allowing an in-depth interpretation of the responses and the contexts in which biotechnological technologies are applied. Results and Data Analysis: The results indicated that most professionals recognize the great potential of biotechnology in solid waste treatment, especially in the use of microorganisms to biodegrade organic and plastic waste. An increasing application of biotechnology in the treatment of industrial waste, such as phytoremediation and bioremediation of contaminated areas, was also observed. However, significant challenges were highlighted, such as the high cost of technologies, the lack of adequate infrastructure, and the resistance of public and private sectors to adopt these solutions. In addition, the lack of specific regulations and public incentive policies was also mentioned as a major obstacle to the dissemination of these technologies. Technical training and the formation of a specialized knowledge base were highlighted as essential for the successful implementation of these innovations. Final Considerations: The research concludes that, despite the existing barriers, biotechnology has a fundamental role to play in the future of solid waste management, offering sustainable and efficient solutions. However, for these solutions to be widely adopted, it is necessary to overcome challenges related to costs, infrastructure, institutional resistance, and lack of public policies. In addition, collaboration between the public, private, and academic sectors, as well as the training of professionals in the field, are key elements to enable the advancement of these technologies. The study indicates that biotechnology can contribute significantly to the promotion of a circular economy and to the mitigation of environmental impacts caused by the accumulation of waste, if there is a joint effort to overcome the identified difficulties.