Plastic pollution in the Brazilian coast: perceptions from hotel managers on the consumption of disposables

This article identified the perceptions of coast-based accommodation facilities managers regarding single-use plastics (SUPS). The research was predominantly qualitative, exploratory, and transversal applied in 41 companies of 8 accommodation categories located in 11 beach destinations within 6 Brazilian states. As the data collection technique, a semi-structured script was applied, and for interpretation, content analysis. The results indicate that economic-driven decisions take precedence over environmental decisions, and there is not an existing common view around a direct relationship between plastic pollution and the reduction in tourist flows. All companies use SUPS, especially cups, bottles, and bags. Among strategies to manage their use and waste, actions of replacement, reduction, environmental education and staff training stand out. Reducing/replacing items such as packaging and amenities require changes in the industry and consumer's consumption behaviour. The absence of plastic products alternatives while keeping quality and price, resistance from consumers and limited support from investors and leaders appear as obstacles to expanding and improving the management of SUPS. Conclusions indicate that the linear logic of continuous use and disposal prevails against the circular economy. Significant perception variations among the categories of accommodation companies were not noticed, as these are predominantly connected to their management. Finally, the context of the COVID-19 pandemic worsens the problem of plastic pollution, requiring greater attention to the topic.

Actions to Confront Covid-19 in Tourist Cities of Maranhao

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant impacts on global public health and as a result, on various economic sectors with tourism being one of the most affected. In this context, this work aimed to identify the impacts on tourism in the municipalities of Sao Luis, Barreirinhas and Tutoia, in addition to confrontational actions in the sector. Methodologically, this is a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory study built on bibliographical and documentary research, and semistructured interviews with tourism administrators held between November 2020 and March 2021. The reflections are based on content analysis. The results pointed out that the key impacts involved drop in tourism flows, reduction/disruption in sales, unemployment and company bankruptcy. In terms of adopted strategies, government measures based on decrees and laws have been verified, in addition to those in direct responsibility of entrepreneurs e.g. the adoption of sanitary protocols and customers communication backed up by technology. The government's support for economic recovery came in the form of public policies, which were its greatest ally.