Logística Reversa do Óleo Lubrificante Usado ou Contaminado (OLUC)

Abstract

Population growth contributes to an increase in waste generation, especially due to the growing use of technology and vehicles that rely on lubricating oil. This increase results in the production of Used or Contaminated Lubricating Oil (OLUC), a hazardous waste that requires proper treatment due to its high dangerousness, containing chemical elements such as heavy metals. Within this context, this study aims to analyze the reverse logistics of OLUC and its stages, from its generation to re-refining, highlighting the relevant legislation at each stage and including challenges faced during the stages of the cycle. To this end, the methodology used takes a qualitative and quantitative approach, incorporating an analysis of current legislation, as well as carrying out two case studies in a company that generates OLUC and a company that treats the waste, where interviews were carried out and questionnaires sent out to obtain information. The results of this work show that in the period analyzed, in 2023, there was a 14.74% increase in OLUC production in the group of companies studied, attributed to the increase in maintenance. The study highlights the importance of environmental education to promote proper waste disposal. It was found that the group of companies faces challenges in properly storing the waste, with only one company complying with the required standards. As for the final destination, the company sends the OLUC to a licensed entity for collection and re-refining, with details of the process presented in a questionnaire. It was observed that the proper handling of OLUC is crucial for environmental preservation, while its correct treatment provides economic benefits. As such, this work highlights the importance of compliance with environmental standards and highlights the main challenges in OLUC management.