Objective: The production and accumulation of solid urban waste is a problem that plagues urban life in Brazilian municipalities. The aim of this study was to investigate the main factors limiting solid waste management in municipalities in Pará.
Method: The study was based on data retrieved from the Ministry of Cities' National Sanitation Information System (SNIS) for 117 municipalities in the state of Pará. Data on the population served, services provided, presence of selective collection, compliance with laws, among others, were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results and conclusion: In this context, the study provided a detailed analysis of the current situation, identifying gaps in management and pointing out specific challenges faced by the municipalities. In short, the research provides a comprehensive overview of solid waste management in Pará's municipalities, highlighting critical challenges, proposing solutions and indicating areas for future research and practical interventions.
Research implications: Contributing to the debate on the importance of state capacities in solid waste management, sustainability and public health.
Originality/value: The research shows that policy failures often arise from an unbalanced focus on a single element, neglecting the complex web of influences that shape public service efficiency.