which takes place in Baku, Azerbaijan, brought important news this week: the creation of the Declaration on the Reduction of Methane from organic waste. Seven of the ten largest emitters of this type of pollutant, including Brazil, have committed to adopting more stringent measures to tackle the problem. O is a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential up to 28 times greater than carbon dioxide. It is released during the decomposition of organic waste, especially in landfills and dumps. In Brazil, this is the second largest source of methane emissions, representing around 16% of the national total. Despite being a significant number, Brazil’s main contribution still comes from , which accounts for 65% of methane emissions.
The declaration signed at COP 29 focuses on the adoption of practices such as composting, recycling organic waste and capturing gas in landfills to generate energy. These solutions have already been implemented in some countries and have shown efficiency not only in reducing emissions, but also in reusing waste as economic resources. For Brazil, the challenge is immense, but the opportunities are also great. According to IBGE, 45% of the waste generated in the country is organic, and much of it is still disposed of inappropriately. Initiatives such as urban composting, encouraging the production of and environmental education can help transform this reality.
Brazil’s adherence to the declaration represents an important commitment. In line with the Global Methane Agreement, the country had already set the goal of reducing 30% of its methane emissions by 2030. Now, it is necessary to ensure that these intentions are translated into concrete actions, with investments in technology and public policies that involve states and municipalities. In addition to reducing environmental impact, combating methane is an opportunity to create green jobs and generate renewable energy. Transforming waste into solutions is part of a sustainable future that needs to start now.
