Where to Dispose of Old Refrigerators in São Paulo

The proper disposal of old refrigerators in São Paulo is regulated by specific environmental legislation, aiming to prevent environmental damage and ensure safety in the reuse and recycling of components. This article presents technical information about the procedures for the correct disposal of refrigerators, highlighting the applicable standards and authorized collection points.

Legislation Applicable to Refrigerator Disposal

The disposal of refrigerators in São Paulo must comply with the National Solid Waste Policy (Law No. 12,305/2010), which regulates the environmentally appropriate destination of solid waste. The law emphasizes shared responsibility for the product life cycle, involving manufacturers, importers, merchants, consumers, and public authorities.

Additionally, CONAMA Resolution No. 401/2008 addresses the management of waste from electrical and electronic equipment, including refrigerators, emphasizing the need for segregation and special treatment due to hazardous components such as refrigerant gas and compressor oil.

Collection and Destination of Refrigerators in São Paulo

The Basic Sanitation Company of the State of São Paulo (SABESP) and the Environmental Company of the State of São Paulo (CETESB) advise that refrigerators should be sent to specific collection points that carry out reverse logistics and environmentally correct treatment of the equipment.

The collection system can be carried out through municipal large volume collection services, specifying scheduled collections for appliances. Additionally, for the correct disposal of electronic products and appliances, scheduling can be done through the specialized collection system that ensures the proper destination of waste and elimination of environmental risks.

Procedures for Safe Disposal

Before disposal, the refrigerator must be emptied by authorized professionals for the removal of refrigerant fluids and oils, as provided in CONAMA Resolution No. 273/2000, ensuring that harmful substances are not released into the atmosphere or soil.

This procedure is essential to avoid impacts such as the greenhouse effect resulting from the release of CFC or HCFC gases present in older refrigerators.

Delivery Points and Reverse Logistics in São Paulo

Voluntary delivery points (PEVs) are provided by the city hall and state environmental agencies, as well as reverse logistics programs in partnership with authorized distributors. These locations guarantee the sorting, dismantling, and recycling of materials, respecting current environmental standards.

Final Recommendations

It is essential that the disposal of old refrigerators strictly follows federal and state legislations to minimize environmental impacts, ensure public safety, and contribute to the circular economy.

For the safe and environmentally correct disposal of digital media, such as hard drives and other storage devices, the use of specialized services that perform data sanitization is recommended, ensuring complete security in the elimination of information.