WEB-APP TERESINA AMBIENTAL (“THE AMBIENTAL): THE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION IMPROVING THE POPULARIZATION OF THE MUNICIPAL ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Abstract

The extension project “Teresina Ambiental” involved the creation of a web application to promote the easy location of sites for the disposal of highly impactful waste (batteries, electronic waste, and used cooking oil), as well as for obtaining free seedlings for reforestation. In line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, the main objective of this extension was to improve accessibility to public or private sector services aimed at environmental improvement or conservation. The methodology consisted of: (a) a questionnaire directed at environmental management authority managers and academics to map target locations for the application's database; (b) initial technical visits to most selected locations; (c) development of the web application with the help of an online platform (Fábrica de Aplicativos); (d) dissemination at a university extension fair, on local radio stations, and on a social network profile; (e) new technical visits to assess the initial impact of the application. The results showed positive acceptance both academically and by the general public, as well as a small but positive impact of the application in terms of improving access to specific waste collection services and seedling provision.