ANALYSIS OF USED COOKING OIL COLLECTION IN VASSOURAS - RJ (2021-2023)

Background: Used cooking oil disposal represents a significant environmental challenge with potential impacts on water resources and urban sanitation systems. However, this waste material presents opportunities for reuse in various industrial applications, including biodiesel and detergent production. The proper management of used cooking oil aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda, promoting both environmental preservation and sustainable resource utilization.

Aims: To conduct a statistical analysis of used cooking oil collection data in Vassouras, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, during the period 2021-2023, evaluating collection patterns and program effectiveness using Minitab software.

Methods: The study employed descriptive statistical analysis using Minitab software to analyze three years of collection data. Statistical tests included the Anderson-Darling normality test, Levene's test for equality of variances, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), all conducted with a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05).

Results: The analysis revealed a total collection of 36,467 liters over the three-year period, with annual averages of 11,803L (2021), 11,822L (2022), and 12,842L (2023). The Anderson-Darling test confirmed normal distribution (p-value = 0.123), while Levene's test showed homoscedasticity among groups (p-value = 0.425). ANOVA results indicated no significant difference between mean collection volumes across the years (p-value = 0.592).

Discussion: The average monthly collection of 1,012.97 liters represents approximately 34 mL per inhabitant, based on Vassouras' population of 34,000. This relatively low per capita collection rate suggests significant potential for program expansion through increased collection points, environmental agent training, and enhanced reverse logistics initiatives.

Conclusion: While the collection program demonstrated operational stability over the study period, the lack of significant growth indicates the need for broader community engagement and systematic improvements. Enhanced participation from all sectors of society is crucial for increasing collection volumes and promoting sustainable urban development.