Understanding the socio-environmental implications of solid waste in urban space: Environmental Education and Sustainability in Viçosa, Alagoas, Brazil

Abstract

The increasing generation of urban solid waste has become one of the major socio-environmental challenges of contemporary society, particularly in urban areas. In this context, this study aimed to analyze the contributions of a didactic sequence developed within the Social Initiatives Laboratory (LIS) to enhance students’ understanding of the socio-environmental implications of urban solid waste and to strengthen their environmental awareness. The project was implemented with high school students in the municipality of Viçosa, Alagoas, Brazil. Methodologically, the study is characterized as qualitative, exploratory, and applied in nature. The pedagogical activities developed in the LIS were based on a literature review, observation of the local reality, investigative activities, photographic records, and the application of questionnaires. The results demonstrated that the activities promoted a more critical understanding of environmental issues among students, encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices in their daily lives and the dissemination of acquired knowledge within their communities. It is concluded that the LIS represents an important pedagogical tool for Environmental Education, contributing to the development of critical, participatory, and environmentally responsible citizens committed to sustainability.