Photovoltaic waste management in rural areas: the role of political institutional work in the construction of specific regulatory standards

In Brazil, there has been a strong increase in the use of photovoltaic (PV) energy generation systems, motivated by the opportunity to reduce energy input costs and by public policies. As a result, an increase in the amount of PV waste generated is expected, which, if not disposed of correctly, will damage the environment. There have been issues with solid waste management and rural sanitation. In view of this, we discussed strategic solutions for the management of PV waste generated in rural areas, based on the reverse logistics model, as recommended by the National Solid Waste Policy. We based our qualitative approach with data collection through interviews with key players, using a semi-structured script and content analysis. Based on the use of the Institutional Theory of Political Work combined with the Theory of Political Instruments, important strategies were identified in the statements of the interviewed actors, which can serve as a framework for regulatory mechanisms to be formulated to promote effective management on farms. For example, the establishment of a regulatory agency, the implementation of different collection mechanisms, as well as a possible regulated delegation.