On average, each person produces about 380 pounds of trash per year; This corresponds to more than 1 kg of garbage a day
A recent survey revealed that 55% of Brazilians are intended to recycle more this year. This data is encouraging, especially in one. However, the desire to recycle bumps into structural, economic and cultural barriers that need to be overcome so that this will translate into real changes. From an environmental point of view, increased recycling has a direct impact on reducing waste sent to landfills and preserving natural resources. With each ton of recycled paper, for example, 10,000 liters of water and 20 trees are spared. However, without efficient selective collection and screening infrastructure, much of this potential is wasted.
The economy also suffers from system inefficiency. , but it is currently sustained largely by cooperatives of pickers who receive little financial or logistical support. The lack of public policies that encourage the circular economy – such as tax exemptions for companies that invest in recyclable materials or conscious consumption stimuli – limits the growth of this sector. Also, the industry needs to do its part. Many products on the market are still packed with hard -to -recycling materials or combine components that make reuse. The transition to a more sustainable economy requires innovation in packaging design and commitment to reverse logistics.
Meanwhile, the average consumer faces practical challenges. Without easy access to specific dumpsters or clear information about what can be recycled, the intention to recycle turns out to be just that: intention. To change this scenario, a joint effort between government, companies and society is required. Brazil has a golden opportunity to turn recycling into a pillar of sustainability and economy. The desire of the population is clear. It is up to the leaders to transform this desire into policies and actions that enable a real and lasting impact.
