Student Research Reports

This study investigated the impact of urban solid waste accumulation on the local microclimate in the municipality of Felipe Guerra, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. The research was conducted following GLOBE Program protocols, comparing areas with waste accumulation to control areas without waste. Measurements of air temperature, surface (soil) temperature, and relative humidity were carried out at eight observation points over two consecutive days under similar atmospheric conditions. The results showed that waste-accumulated areas presented higher air and surface temperatures and lower relative humidity values compared to clean areas. These effects are related to soil impermeabilization, heat-absorbing materials, and reduced vegetation cover. The findings demonstrate that improper waste disposal negatively affects the urban microclimate, highlighting the importance of proper waste management and environmental education to improve local thermal and environmental conditions.