The research on the waste management of a small dairy factory, located in Visconde de Mauá (RJ), started from the concern with the environmental effects observed in the stream close to the small industry. According to a water quality study in 2012, the stream had a great anthropic impact caused by the industrial occupation of dairy products (Carreño, 2012). The Rio Preto is the largest water body whose main villages are on the banks of the streams. In addition, it is currently the main tourist attraction of Visconde de Mauá. The river has several waterfalls, wells, fishing areas, areas for extreme sports, among other characteristics unique to the place. Thus, the conservation and maintenance of water quality are fundamental to sustain society in Visconde de Mauá. The region underwent several changes in terms of economic activity and landscape transformation. Today, the main activities are tourism and the industrial production of a small dairy factory. Saw cheese is still highly valued by both tourists and locals alike, who many consider it a substitute for meat, as it is easy to conserve in rainy seasons. Such practices provide the economic development and employability of local residents, however, failures in socio-environmental management are observed. The performance of public agencies is deficient in terms of planning, infrastructure and water management, sewage, garbage, real estate speculation, health posts and mobility. This work proposes a qualitative analysis of the waste management of a small dairy factory, under the perspective of the concept Social Metabolism.