Dr. Bianca Ramalho Quintaes is a biologist and researcher specializing in urban sustainability, food waste, and circular economy strategies. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biochemical Processes from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) and a Master’s degree in Medical Microbiology from the State University of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ). She serves as Department Manager at the Applied Research Center of COMLURB, Rio de Janeiro’s Municipal Urban Cleaning Company, where she leads applied research integrating science, public policy, and urban environmental management. Her work focuses on household solid waste analysis, food waste assessment, composting systems, and innovative pathways for food recovery within circular economy frameworks. Dr. Quintaes has extensive experience in microbiological analysis of environmental samples, landfill leachate studies, and sanitation quality control. Her current work bridges waste management and food systems, promoting evidence-based solutions to reduce waste while supporting sustainable food production in urban environments.

Title of talk: Food Waste in Household Solid Waste: Evidence from Rio de Janeiro’s Waste Survey and Circular Pathways for Food Recovery