A decree that proposes the flexibility of waste imports is under discussion in the Brazilian industrial sector.
The proposal, which argues that some materials would be “strategic inputs” for certain industry segments, has generated debates about their potential environmental and economic impacts.
The climate and environmental analyst of CNN , Pedro Côrtes, It points out that Brazil currently recycles only about 4% of the waste it produces, highlighting great unexplored potential for the use of waste and its reintegration in the production chain.
Benefits of Recycling and Current Challenges
Côrtes emphasizes the multiple benefits of recycling: “When we do this whole cycle of treating waste and separating what can be reused, we stop removing material from nature, that is, we are saving nature, we increase the social inclusion of collectors, which are a group that depends a lot on this recycling”.
The expert points to the lack of structuring policies regarding recycling and CIRCULAR ECONOMY IN BRAZIL .
It cites successful examples, such as the Selective Collection Program in São Paulo and the almost total recycling of aluminum cans in the country demonstrating the potential for expansion of these initiatives.
Questions about the need for importation
Côrtes questions the need to relax waste importation: “We do not have this need for this flexibility.
In order for us to have an increase in recycling, partnerships could be made between the public sector and the private sector, the PPPs, to form new cooperatives. ”
The analyst suggests that instead of importing waste, Brazil should focus on taking better advantage of the materials already available internally, promoting recycling and circular economy.
He points out that there are international examples, as in Portugal where recycling incentive systems have been successfully implemented.
The discussion about the flexibility of waste imports occurs a few months before COP30, raising concerns about the image of Brazil regarding environmental policies.
Côrtes concludes that the country has opportunities to show good practices in areas such as energy transition and urban waste management, which could be prioritized instead of importing recyclable materials.
This content was originally published in garbage import: Brazil needs to make rules more flexible? on the CNN Brazil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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