ALTERNATIVES FOR REUSE AND RECYCLING OF POLYMERIC RAILWAY WASTE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Polymeric waste includes waste generated in all production, industrial, commercial, and service areas. The inadequate management of this waste presents serious risks to the environment and the health of the population. Poor waste management emits contaminants that are harmful and harmful to society, and the transportation sector is responsible for much of this generation, especially in the road modal, because it is the most used. However, its environmental impacts with the generation of Greenhouse Gases (GHG), bring to the surface an extremely relevant discussion, which is its graduais replacement by less impacting alternatives such as electric cars and vehicles without engines for passenger transportation and the expansion of railroads for cargo transportation. The railway system is considered to have less impact than other modalities, but it also generates risks and impacts such as the generation of waste in the construction of railroads, their maintenance and expansion. In this sense, this study aims to present a qualitative and quantitative approach on environmental impacts originating from railway activities, especially with regard to solid waste, identifying recycling and reuse as alternatives through a Systematic Literature Review. This review discusses the different solid waste management strategies practiced in different countries, the challenges faced during this management, and possible solutions to overcome these challenges. It also provides useful information on polymer waste management scenarios and a possible way forward.