Estímulos e barreiras para reaproveitamento de resíduos de madeira na fabricação de briquetes: estudo de casos

Abstract

The mechanical wood processing industry is one of the major generators of lignocellulosic wastes that result from the processing and transforming of wood. Such wastes are usually discarded in an improper way, thus causing environmental damages. However, with increasing requirement of sustainable practices companies are considering reviewing their attitudes regarding the waste discard, investing in their management and reuse. In this context, we can point out reverse logistics and forest biomass return, like sawdust, shavings and wood dust to the wood briquettes production. It is characterized as a renewable and environmentally benefical alternative, presenting better characteristics to others energy sources. Therefore, in view of the superiority of the product, the aim of this study is to identify the reasons that lead a wood processing company to the harnessing of wood waste originated in its own productive process to produce briquettes and the factors that can hinder this process. To that end it was performed a multiple case study. There were analyzed two wood processing enterprises that are engaged in briquettes production (B1 and B2) and another two enterprises that do not utilize theirs wastes (M1 and M2). To the data collection it was applied interviews to the main managers of the companies chosen. The results have showed that there are limited options to the wood waste resale and destination and low gain achieved. It was identified in B1 and B2 that the main stimulus to briquette production is the correct destination to wastes in according to legislation, superior financial gains and independence of companies that buy this waste. Regarding the barriers it was observed the high seasonal influence in business requiring the need to a place of product storage. Added to this factor it was pointed the small information of the briquette by the consumers and the need for divulgating advantages and benefits of briquettes consumption. It was also pointed the availability of wastes and low humidity of them, because acquisition of waste from other companies, transportation and drying demand turn the costs processes more costly. The waste must display adequate size and be derived from specific wood species since it will influence the quality of the final product. The results also indicated that briquetting organizations do not obtain tax, legal or governmental incentives in Brazil. This study contributes to the revelation of an alternative to the wood processing industries to waste destination.