Reverse logistics: the secure disposal of cell phone batteries in Brazil

Abstract

Brazil is the first country in Latin America to have legislation regulating the disposal and treatment of batteries. Resolution n. 257 of the National Environment Council (CONAMA) establishes limits for the concentration of heavy metals in cells and batteries so that they can be disposed of with household waste. For the collection to be efficient, it is necessary that all involved parties embrace the cause and dedicate themselves as much as possible to do their part. The questions that drive this research are: Do Brazilian companies practice reverse logistics for the collection of smartphone batteries? If so, how is reverse logistics implemented? In this context, the main objective is to know if Brazilian companies employ reverse logistics for the collection of smartphone batteries in Brazil. The methodology applied in the research is that of qualitative exploratory research. Publications on websites and portals of Smartphone battery collection services and Brazilian regulations were searched for the research topics. The main topic of the research is to know if the companies apply reverse logistics to the disposal of Smartphone batteries. During the research valid inferences from texts were sought for the contexts of reverse logistics and disposal of Smartphone batteries. For the research data collection, a previous analysis was performed, in addition to the material analysis and the treatment of the results, the inference. According to the results of the research obtained, the main producers and suppliers of smartphones, as well as the telephony carriers in Brazil fulfill their role in structuring and implementing reverse logistics systems, besides making available disposal points for smartphone batteries. However, one of the weak points of the reverse logistics applied is the little disclosure to consumers as to the adequate disposal and collection points indicated by the companies.