Abstract

(Introduction):  This study poses a challenge to the governmental climate change actions and problematizes the emissions generated by garbage burning in many neighborhoods of Posadas city (Argentina). Beyond the automobile traffic and the few industries in the city, the air quality is unsafe, and the frequency of smog is related to a cultural practice: garbage burning.

(Objective):  The objective of this research was to know and identify neighbors' burning practices, risk management and analyze the most critical areas in the southern outskirts of the city.

(Methodology):  The information was obtained from a sampling of PM 2.5 particulate matter in a group of neighborhoods in the southern outskirts, as well as from interviews with neighbors.

(Results):  It is analyzed how, regardless of the legislation and the waste collection system, neighbors burn on sidewalks, in vacant lots, in backyards, in little-used streets, etc., a problem that is not informed, controlled, or regulated.

(Conclusions):  finally, it should be noted that beyond the culture of handling garbage with fire, burning is a multidimensional problem, since it affects air quality and has harmful effects on public health in the medium and long term.

Keywords: Air quality; health risks; smog pollution; urban environment