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Creating solutions that ensure environmental protection is increasingly important for the industrial sector both in Brazil and abroad. Strategies to this end include the deployment of cost-effective technologies to reduce the environmental impact and the consumption of natural and energy resources.  <div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">Aperam avoids the emission of approximately 700 thousands tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, i.e., the equivalent of removing the CO2 produced by 732,000 cars per year.</div>Given this need, Aperam South America and its subsidiary Aperam BioEnergia – the company produces and trades stainless steel, electrical steel and specialty steel – are continually seeking ways to contribute to environmental conservation, local development and the improvement of living conditions in the communities in the areas where they operate.   As such, Aperam’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.  Aperam is a Latin-American leader in specialty flat steel and the only company in this segment to use solely charcoal as fuel globally – and this is how Aço Verde Aperam came into existence.  In addition, the charcoal used by Aperam South America’s steel mill in Vale do Aço is fully derived from renewable eucalyptus forests grown by Aperam BioEnergia in Vale do Jequitinhonha (MG), thus securing its self-sufficient power generation.  Aperam BioEnergia produces around 400 thousand tons of charcoal per year with an in-house staff of approximately 1,000 people in the Vale do Jequitinhonha region. It also develops new technologies for the production of charcoal through a process that reduces the emission of smoke into the atmosphere. “The company leverages its forest assets by focusing on production at the Aperam South America steel plant, and advances sustainable development in the Vale do Jequitinhonha region through actions geared towards health, safety and the environment while promoting social initiatives,” says Edimar de Melo Cardoso, Director of Operations at Aperam BioEnergia. Frederico Ayres Lima, CEO of Aperam South America and Aperam BioEnergia, explains that the Aço Verde Aperam brand is all about the way in which the steel is produced. “Our product is sustainable and exclusive because it comes from renewable eucalyptus forests maintained by Aperam BioEnergia, which are the source of 100% of the fuel used in our production. We are leaders in CO2 emission reduction, with the smallest carbon footprint in the stainless and electrical steel segment, and we are working to further reduce carbon emissions and strengthen our position as a carbon neutral company,” says Lima.  Innovation – Aperam developed Endur, the world’s first high-strength stainless steel, the ultra-light concrete mixer and the returnable stainless drum, which emphasize the recyclability of steel by making products more durable, which in turns translates into reduced consumption. Other innovations include the Additive Manufacturing project, which will reclaim at least a thousand pieces of equipment in different areas of the industry through 3D printing over the coming months. At Aperam BioEnergia, a gas burner was created to capture smoke from coal production furnaces, which has significantly reduced the emission of smoke into the atmosphere. An automated system to monitor the temperature and to control oxygen inflows into the carbon furnaces has also been put in place. This provides more accurate data, leverages processes and allows for gains in terms of standardization, quality and cost of charcoal. All of these innovations have been developed in-house and are based on proprietary technology. As far as renewable energy is concerned, Aperam has initiatives underway in other locations around the world, such as the Châtelet site, in Belgium, which installed photovoltaic panels in 2018 and is switching to solar energy in order to reduce annual emissions of 7,300 tons of CO2 in the atmosphere. In Brazil, the company is conducting advanced research on this. The company entered into a share purchase agreement for the acquisition of ELG, the world leader in the sustainable recycling of stainless steel scrap and high-performance alloys, thus strengthening the circular economy principle. The acquisition is now in the regulatory approval stage. Aperam is also concerned with social and environmental development in the areas where it operates and so implements actions such as the Training Program for Steel Workers. The Aperam Acesita Foundation promotes the inclusion of people with disabilities, in addition to the Aperam Acesita Foundation call for projects, which has been encouraging initiatives that improve living conditions for 10 years now. The company’s sustainable goals for 2030 are to reduce energy consumption by 11%, CO2 emissions by 30%, and dust emissions by 70%, and to increase reuse of waste and recycling by 97%, and to reduce water consumption by 40%.

Aperam: Energy Transition | Circular Economy

The company is a pioneer in the use of charcoal as fuel: that’s how Aço Verde Aperam came into being 

Aperam resorts to innovation as a means to reduce the environmental impact of steel production 

Cement is a key input in the construction supply chain, and is the main component of concrete, the second most consumed construction material on the planet after water, according to the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA).  <div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">Brazil appears in a leading position in the database as the country that emits the lowest amount of CO2, per ton of cement produced in the world.</div>It's not hard to understand why this is so. Cement is a critical element in the development of a country’s infrastructure. It is the primary element for the construction of houses, schools, hospitals, roads, railways, ports, airports, sanitation and energy works, and many other facilities that provide health and well-being to citizens and meet the requirements of modern life.  As a developing country, Brazil has an important infrastructure program to be implemented. In addition, population growth, alongside ever-increasing urbanization rates, is expected to boost the demand for cement in the coming decades. However, cement production – a complex, raw material and energy intensive industrial process – poses a huge challenge given the climate crisis. It is a greenhouse gas (GHG) intensive process. Globally, the cement industry accounts for about 7% of all carbon dioxide emitted by humans. Locally, however, the cement industry is a source of good news. Given how the sector has been operating in Brazil for decades, as well as the profile of national emissions itself, this share drops to almost a third of the world average. This corresponds to 2.3% according to the National Inventory of Anthropogenic Emissions and Removals of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) not controlled by the Montreal Protocol (which is part of the National Communication of Brazil to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change - UNFCCC). Its mode of operation is in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy, in particular as it refers to energy transition and the circular economy. The carbon agenda is so important and strategic to the international cement industry that nearly 20 years ago the sector created what is now hailed as the largest database of emissions and environmental indicators for an industrial sector in the world. This database is fed by 48 of the planet’s largest cement companies and eight industry associations, covering nearly 850 factories worldwide. Brazil appears in a leading position in the database as the country that emits the lowest amount of CO2 per ton of cement produced in the world in 25 of the nearly 30 years of the historical series. But this prominent position presents an enormous challenge – producing the cement required for the country’s development while seeking solutions to further reduce CO2 emissions. This is what led to the need to draw up a roadmap of the future challenges facing the sector, as well as strategies to find the solutions. Cement Technology Roadmap – Faced with the challenge of finding ways to further reduce its CO2 emissions, the cement industry in Brazil – in collaboration with the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and experts from universities and technology centers in the country – developed the Cement Technology Roadmap, one of the most ambitious projects in the sector in recent decades, and a pioneer initiative among other Brazilian industrial sectors. It mapped various scenarios and alternatives that could accelerate the sector’s low-carbon transition in the short, medium and long term leading to 2050. The alternatives focus on four main pillars. Alternatives – The first pillar includes actions to accelerate the transition and is related to alternative raw materials, additions and substitutes for clinker – an intermediate cement product – such as steel slag, fly ash and limestone filler.  The second pillar covers alternative fuels, i.e., power-generating biomass and waste to replace non-renewable fossil fuels. The third pillar includes energy efficiency measures through investments in product lines and equipment with lower thermal and/or electrical consumption.  Finally, the fourth pillar refers to innovative and emerging technologies through research and development in disruptive technologies such as carbon capture.  “Based on these scenarios, the industry expects to reduce its projected emissions by 33%, i.e., 22 MtCO2eq by 2050, or 420 MtCO2eq, cumulatively over the entire period. This would entail reducing the current carbon intensity of Brazil’s cement production from 564 kg of CO2 per ton of cement (international reference) to 375 kg CO2/t cement by 2050,” says Camillo Penna, president of the National Union of the Cement Industry (SNIC) and of the Brazilian Association of Portland Cement (ABCP). The proposed options include the use of alternative raw materials, or additions, which would account for 69% of the sector’s reduction potential, while alternative fuels would account for 13%. Energy efficiency and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) measures would each account for 9% of the potential. Short term – Short-term actions to accelerate the potential areas described in the roadmap included expanded use of additions or alternative raw materials as a priority, in particular by updating Cement Standards recommended by the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT), which haven’t been updated for almost 30 years now. In July 2018, the industry updated the standards to allow for a wider use of additions – in particular limestone filler – in line with the most recent standards in the world. As a result, by adopting these new grades in their entirety, the sector would achieve a potential emission reduction of around 8%.Alternative fuels were also covered in a priority action. In October 2020, the new Conama Resolution on the Co-processing of Waste in Cement Kilns was approved as an override to the initial resolution – which was more than 20 years old. So emission definitions and parameters were updated based also on contemporary European standards, while also introducing the concept of urban solid waste and methods of thermal treatment of this waste, as well as expired drugs. The sector has been progressing well in the use of these alternative fuels, i.e., waste tires; industrial waste such as oily sludges, paints, solvents, and plastics; urban waste; biomass and agricultural waste such as rice husks, açaí and babassu seeds, fine charcoal, etc. Since the 2000s, the share of alternative fuels in the sector’s energy mix jumped from 9% to 31% (2019). In absolute terms, it increased from 300 thousand tons in 2000 to 1.5 million tons of waste currently. Circular economy – The notion of waste co-processing is fully integrated in the concept of a circular economy since it reuses the calorific value of these wastes while eliminating the resulting environmental liability from their accumulation in landfills or even dumps. Meanwhile, since this waste contains lower levels of carbon than the traditional fossil fuels used in the sector, such as petroleum coke, it also contributes to reducing CO2 emissions. As per the roadmap, the sector expects to reach a share of 55% of these alternative fuels in its energy mix by 2050. These are extremely ambitious targets ​for Brazilian standards, but fully attainable if the European standards are used as a benchmark: in Europe the replacement rate is now 50% on average; Germany and Austria are examples of levels above 70%. SNIC – The National Union of the Cement Industry (SNIC) was established in 1953 as the institutional representative of the sector. By developing institutional relations with domestic and foreign public and private organizations, it provides technical and advisory advice on economic, tax, environmental, and mining issues. It conducts studies and develops sector indicators so that the figures ​​generated by the cement industry can be shared with millions of people and support the country’s economic, social and environmental growth.

Cement: Energy Transition | Circular Economy

The cement sector promotes actions to further reduce its greenhouse gas emissions – its emissions correspond to one third of the world average 

Brazil is the country that emits the lowest amount of CO2 per ton of cement produced in the world 

Reducing the use of raw materials from non-renewable sources and waste in nature are essential to ensure environmental conservation. A clean and sustainable industry must follow these principles. <div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">We have a clean production process to drive socioeconomic and environmental development while supporting renewable resources, investments in technology, and research and development.</div>In order to live up to this requirement, Fibertex – a textile company pioneer in the production of nonwovens – developed a line of such products that is fully made from recycled fibers from PET bottles collected from the environment. In addition, it incorporates sustainable practices into its nonwovens production process.  Fibertex’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation. “Fibertex’s operations are fully consistent with the triple bottom line: environmental, social and economic. We have a clean production process to drive socioeconomic and environmental development while supporting renewable resources, investments in technology, and research and development,” president of Fibertex Brazil Carlos Benatto says.  All roundness – Fibertex provides durable nonwovens for a variety of applications, with adequate thickness, weight and mechanical properties, such as high tensile rates, tear resistance, elongation, flexibility, and absorption. The product was created in response to market demand – materials from sustainable sources became a requirement (especially major brands of sports shoes), high performance materials and certification of traceability and sustainable origin. To meet this demand, Fibertex resorted to sustainable technology and raw materials. It put together a team capable of developing these products and checking on their performance with customers. The process started to be tracked. A Fibertex sustainable certification was also created, which guarantees the process and origin of raw materials and the use of 100% of the materials, which reduces waste. Fibertex developed a comprehensive portfolio to meet the needs of synthetic laminate manufacturers, dubbing businesses and manufacturers of components for the footwear industry. All products are entirely made from recycled PET bottles. There is also a specific product line for the footwear sector made from recycled polyester fibers. Practical changes – In addition to products themselves, the company has adapted its routine procedures. It uses energy from 100% renewable sources and has a photovoltaic energy system in place in the office area. In addition, it is considering using this type of energy for the production process and has implemented some changes: more cost-effective equipment (air compressors, lamps, engines) has been acquired; rainwater is reused in the process and, if disposal is necessary, it is cleaned and treated before being returned to a river, without any damages to the environment. As part of its sustainable strategy, Fibertex also invests in the professional training of its human capital. “We believe that high performance is driven by people and so we focus on training and educating the workers involved in the production chain so that we can make the most of technology in terms of cost-effectiveness and efficiency. The results are reflected in the most effective solutions for key sectors in the economy, such as medical/health care, automotive, footwear, filtration, infrastructure, agriculture, and more,” says Carlos Benatto.  History – Fibertex has more than a thousand employees worldwide and is wholly owned by SchouwCo. It is headquartered in Aalborg, Denmark, where the company was founded in 1968. It also has production facilities in France, Czech Republic, Turkey, South Africa, the US, and Brazil, as well as sales offices in France, Spain, China, India, and Portugal.

Fibertex: Energy Transition | Circular Economy 

Fibertex focuses on recycled fibers from PET bottles, in addition to incorporating sustainable practices into its production process  

Reducing the use of raw materials from non-renewable sources and recycling are Fibertex’s goals 

The global climate crisis is relentlessly driving major changes in the Brazilian industry and there is no shortage of examples of efforts to mitigate them. As the second largest food company in the world and the largest in the protein business, JBS is working to push sustainable initiatives. <div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">JBS has undertaken to slash its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by reducing its direct and indirect emissions and by offsetting all residual emissions by 2040.</div>These initiatives are in line with a far-reaching strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy. The CNI’s low-carbon strategy is based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.  An example is the 2040 Net Zero Commitment, announced by JBS in March 2021, which is consistent with the energy transition pillar. JBS has undertaken to slash its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by reducing its direct and indirect emissions (scopes 1, 2 and 3) and by offsetting all residual emissions by 2040.  JBS has also joined the United Nations Race to Zero and is developing a science-based goal plan to become Net Zero. In addition, it will report on its climate change data in line with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD). JBS’s efforts are also consistent with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting global temperature rise to 2 °C, with the aim of containing it to 1.5 °C in relation to pre-industrial levels.  “Climate change is undoubtedly the greatest challenge facing our generation. If nothing is done, we will be compromising the next generations,” says JBS Global CEO Gilberto Tomazoni. “As leaders in the Brazilian industrial sector and because we have a significant global scale, we at JBS have the opportunity to become major agents of change to a low carbon economy, with a more effective and sustainable system,” says Tomazoni. Sound actions to keep the commitment To achieve its ambition, JBS is developing greenhouse gas emission reduction targets across its global operations and value chains in South America, North America, Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. As a next step, JBS will be launching a science-based plan to reach Net Zero in compliance with the criteria established under the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). JBS will also provide annual updates on its progress to ensure its processes are transparent.  It has admitted that it does not have all the answers to the challenge, but that it trusts science to provide solutions. Early in the process, however, it established a clear list of actions to reach Net Zero by 2040: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 30% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030 in relation to 2019. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Investment of US$1 billion over the next 10 years in emission reduction projects that will be reviewed by a committee consisting of JBS officers, scholars and experts.·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Investment of $100 million in Research and Development by 2030 in order to implement emission mitigation solutions, such as improving regenerative agricultural practices, intensifying soil carbon sequestration, and technologies aimed at suppliers’ farms. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Full conversion of the electricity consumed in its entire operation to renewable sources by 2040. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Linking the variable remuneration of senior executives to climate goals. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Target for a bovine supply chain free from illegal deforestation in the Amazon and other Brazilian biomes by 2025, including the suppliers of suppliers. JBS’s 2040 Net Zero initiative highlights the company’s commitment to the ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) agenda. This initiative was launched over a decade ago, with significant investments in tangible actions throughout its value chain.  “JBS’s challenge is a long global marathon, which has started already, and the clock is ticking fast against all of us. Although the route to 2040 has not yet been completely outlined, the most important thing is to understand that there can only be winners if we all run in the same direction,” says Gilberto Tomazoni. More about JBS – With a diversified suite of products (poultry, pork, beef, fish, and lamb, in addition to plant-based), the company has production sites and offices on all continents, in countries like Brazil, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, China, and others. JBS offers a broad portfolio of brands recognized for excellence and innovation all over the world: Seara, Swift, Pilgrim’s Pride, Moy Park, Primo, Just Bare, and many others, which are served daily on tables in 190 countries. JBS’s operations have a focus on food high quality and safety, and adopts the best sustainability and animal welfare practices throughout its value chain with the purpose of feeding people around the world in an increasingly sustainable manner.

JBS: Energy Transition

In a pioneering announcement in its industry, JBS undertook a commitment to become Net Zero by 2040 

In order to tackle the climate challenge, JBS was the first global company in the protein sector to set a Net Zero goal  

Forest conservation is vital to mitigate the effects of global warming and preserve biodiversity. Brazil has a large forest cover – the second largest in the world – and is endowed with plentiful natural resources and raw materials that are fundamental for the balance and stability of ecosystems. However, they require more and more sustainable management solutions from the industrial sector.  <div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">Environmental conservation actions support the ecological cycle and maintenance of life for both animals and human beings.</div>"Veracel is in the pulp business, and is continually seeking to adopt sustainable practices for the production of its flagship product. The company’s initiatives in this regard are consistent with forest conservation, one of the four pillars in the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy.  With an average annual production of 1.1 million tons of pulp, this agro-industrial business has over 3,000 associate and contractor members of staff in the Costa do Descobrimento region.  Reserve – One of Veracel’s main initiatives is the Private Natural Heritage Reserve (RPPN) Estação Veracel, a protected area owned by the company that is recognized by the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio). Located in southern Bahia, the PA is the largest private Atlantic Forest reserve in the Northeast, and is part of the Atlantic Forest conservation strategy in southern Bahia. In addition to environmental education and bird watching, Estação Veracel has hosted and promoted the work of scientific researchers. According to Virgínia Camargos, coordinator of Veracel’s Environmental Strategy and Integrated Management, environmental conservation actions support the ecological cycle and maintenance of life for both animals and human beings. “This is one of the pillars of sustainable development and is in line with our objective of being responsible, inspiring people and valuing life,” she said.   The company’s eucalyptus trees make up a mosaic with the native forest, serving as a shelter and passageway for fauna. It allows for species to migrate and prevents their isolation. An analysis of the area where the company operates shows more than 65,000 hectares connected with more than 5.5 million native trees from the Atlantic Forest planted in the region. As it is home to significant populations of endemic and endangered species, the RPPN Estação Veracel was identified as a Key Biodiversity Area and an Important Bird Area in international conventions on environmental conservation. Animals – Other actions for the conservation of the company’s biodiversity are conducted in partnership with the Instituto Baleia Jubarte (IBJ). The primary action is the monitoring of humpbacks on the southern coast of Bahia in order to understand how human activities can affect the natural flow of these animals.  In addition to this collaboration, the company also has a marine turtle monitoring program, with support from CTA Serviços em Meio Ambiente, an international consulting company in the environmental sector. Veracel monitors the animals daily by collecting information on hatches and by identifying stranded or spawning turtles. Efforts have contributed to an increase in turtle density.

Veracel: Forest Conservation

Actions include preservation of the Atlantic Forest and monitoring of humpback whales and sea turtles 

Veracel funds a protected area to preserve biodiversity  

The global climate crisis has become a global emergency and requires tangible changes in all sectors. For instance, there is no more room for a linear economy where resources are extracted to produce goods and the resulting waste is thrown away. The circular economy, where waste is used as an input for the production of new goods – as is the case in nature –, has become a more sustainable alternative model. Another model that has emerged to address social and environmental issues is the bioeconomy. It uses science and technology to develop innovative products – such as foods, drugs, cosmetics, biofuels and many more – based on the properties of plants, animals, microorganisms, and other biological resources.<div style="padding: 25px;background-color:rgb(164, 202, 157);font-size:1.25rem; margin: 20px 0;border-radius:10px; color:rgb(0, 73, 99); font-weight:bold;">A survey conducted by the CNI shows that 76.5% of industrial companies develop some initiative related to the circular economy</div>As such, Brazil is considered by specialists to be the country with the greatest potential to spearhead the bioeconomy market globally. Brazil is endowed with vast fertile lands, abundant water and significant biodiversity, in addition to receiving high levels of sunlight and being home to the largest portion of the Amazon biome. Against this backdrop, the Brazilian tree industry emerges as a model and plays a leading role in the bioeconomy and circular economy. This sector accounts for 7% of the country’s industrial Gross Domestic Product; it holds 9 million hectares of planted forests and allocates 5.9 million hectares to conservation. According to the Brazilian Tree Industry (Ibá) association, concepts related to sustainability, bioeconomy and circular economy are at the heart of all production efforts. Ibá brings together nearly 60 companies and state entities in the planted tree business, as well as independent producers and financial investors.Greener, more sustainable and more inclusive – According to Ibá, 90% of the energy used in this sector is renewable and about 70% of the total comes from self-production. In addition, the tree industry in Brazil provides expertise in the circular economy expertise in the segments of energy, paper recycling, water circularity, and production of new products from waste. This results in other benefits, such as job creation and income generation, on a greener, more sustainable and more inclusive path. In terms of water use, the national pulp and paper industry reduced 75% of the water needed to produce one ton of cellulose – and some wood panel factories have achieved full water circularity. The average water reuse rate in the pulp and paper sector is 43%; in the wood panels and laminate floors sector, it is 12%. Paper – Indeed, the domestic paper production industry provides compelling evidence of the sector’s efficiency in its efforts to establish a circular economy. According to Ibá, this is business as usual since it is one of the industries that recycles the most in Brazil – on average, this affects 70% of the paper produced in the country.A case in point is CMPC, which is based in the municipality of Guaíba (RS). CMPC is a pulp and paper supplier to the global market that follows three principles: creating innovative cellulose-based solutions; co-existing with hundreds of neighboring communities; and conserving the environment and the natural resources that it has access to. According to Mauricio Harger, CEO of CMPC in Brazil, the company has taken on the challenge of spearheading a change in the approach to production – from a linear economy to a circular economy – where the resources used are not thrown away, but redirected to new production processes. “To reach this goal, we have the CMPC Circular Economy Hub, which covers a 99-hectare area and is located in Eldorado do Sul (RS). It recirculates 100% of the 600,000 tons of solid waste generated from production of the company’s cellulose every year. This circulation process supports approximately 160 jobs and generates an annual revenue of more than BRL 15 million,”, says Harger. To preserve the environment, for example, 20% of the wood logs used by the CMPC plant are transported by waterways, thereby eliminating around 100,000 annual truck road trips and preventing the emission of 56,000 tons of carbon monoxide in the atmosphere. In addition, the eucalyptus crop areas are reused for new crops, thus eliminating the need to clear conservation areas or areas covered with other crops, such as soybeans and corn.Products and by-products – More than five thousand products and by-products result from the conservation + sustainable production equation in the Brazilian tree industry, ranging from the best-known goods – such as cellulose; paper; paper packaging and tissues; toilet paper, surgical masks and diapers; laminate floors and wood panels; charcoal and biomass – to innovations such as fabric fibers from trees. An example is viscose, which has been gaining strength in the textile industry in replacement of synthetic yarns and accounts for around 5% of the global market. At present, around 70% of the fabrics used in the world are synthetic and fossil based.From 2000 to 2018, the share of plant viscose grew from 4.8% (2.7 million tons) to 6.5% (6.9 million tons) in the international market. It is estimated that by 2023 this share will reach 7% (8.5 million tons), according to The Fiber Year report.Alternatives to fossil-based materials – The Brazilian tree industry is committed to investigating alternatives to fossil-based materials made from cultivated trees. The results of this ongoing effort include microfibrillated cellulose for textiles (a 90% reduction in water and chemicals); nanocellulose crystals for cell phones; and lignin, a raw material that brings the promise of making the production of shoes, tires, wood glues, tarpaulins and brake pads more sustainable – and as an additive to concrete (with a reduction in water and cement consumption). Lignin can also be used in conventional thermoplastics, which provides for greater recyclability.Products created from the waste generated in the Brazilian tree industry also include mineral and biological fertilizers; organic fertilizers; substrate; composting; hydrated lime; soil acidity conditioners and correctives; calcium chloride; furniture; floor ceramics and tiles; chicken litter and animal pens; and obviously energy, which is created from biomass, charcoal and black liquor (a by-product of cooked wood to extract cellulose). ​

Bioeconomy: Circular Economy

Approximately 90% of the energy used in this sector is renewable and about 70% of the total comes from self-production

The circular (bio)economy of the planted tree industry for a sustainable, innovative and inclusive journey

The climate crisis requires tangible changes on the part of the industrial sector. For instance, there is no more room for a linear economy. Against this backdrop, the circular economy emerges as a solution through new business models and manufacturing processes.Founding partners Marcelo Ebert and José Luiz Majolo drew inspiration from the circular economy to found YVY, a producer of ultra-concentrated, chemical-free cleaning products sold in returnable and recyclable capsules. No synthetic ingredients, no pollutants, no single-use plastic packaging. The brand’s production process takes into consideration the biological cycles of nature and its products are packaged in resistant reusable sprayers provided by the brand itself. Overall, the products are even cheaper than synthetic competitors.Actions such as those implemented by YVY are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on the pillars of energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation. Innovation – The empty capsules are returned to the YVY plant through a reverse logistics process and are continuously reprocessed into new capsules. Products are purchased through an on-line subscription, and they come in standardized kits or are tailored to the customer. Finally, the products are delivered to the customer’s home for their total convenience. “YVY proposes a new, more streamlined approach to house cleaning, with maximum efficiency and minimum environmental impact – a response to new times where the previous model is outdated,” says Marcelo Ebert as he explains that the brand drew inspiration from an indigenous tradition: “Guarani wisdom speaks of a land without evil, where there is communion between man and nature,” he says. It is not by chance that the word yvy means “land” in Tupi-Guarani.&nbsp; “Our products are fully natural, with plant ingredients from renewable sources, such as orange, palm, palm kernel, eucalyptus, soy, wheat, and essential oils for fragrances,” says Marcelo. “In addition, we do not use water – as is the case with traditional products, which are water-intensive – and so we emit less CO2”, he explains.&nbsp; YVY – The company was founded in 2018 by entrepreneurs Ebert and Majolo, who had previously worked in the financial industry. In 2007, Majolo left the financial industry to start TerpenOil, a company that sells cleaning products with active natural ingredients to industrial companies, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, etc. Four years later, Marcelo Ebert joined the endeavor, with a focus on end consumers.“We started from scratch: we had the plan to found and grow the company without external funds – and we reached 1,000 subscribers two years later, in January 2020,” says Ebert. The products were so successful that the company soon reached the mark of 7,000 monthly or bimonthly subscriptions.The company’s catalog includes disinfectants, products for washing dishes and clothes, floor cleaning, heavy cleaning and multipurpose, all with the quality stamp of the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT), an internationally recognized product certificate on the manufacture of sustainable products that minimize the impact on the environment and health.“Four giant global companies have taught the world that petrochemicals with fragrance are synonymous with cleaning,” says Ebert. “It took many years for YVY to be ready, as we didn’t accept anything that was different from not having synthetic and petrochemical ingredients while being highly efficient and powerful cleaning”, says Ebert. “Then, we considered the production chain: it would make no sense to create a product that would make the planet even more crowded with more plastics”. YVY currently has 15 employees, who use TerpenOil’s facilities for production and packaging of products, which are marketed throughout Brazil.

YVY: A small revolution in cleaning

E-commerce company innovates by offering non-polluting products in recyclable and returnable capsules

A small revolution in cleaning

Brazil’s diverse domestic industry and supply of natural resources provide excellent opportunities for the country to develop sustainably, and the food industry in Brazil has been working hard on that front.As a leader in the production of frozen fried potatoes and dehydrated potato flakes, Bem Brasil Alimentos focuses on the circular economy for waste management, fertigation and composting.Founded in 2006, Bem Brasil currently has two plants in the Triângulo Mineiro region: one in Araxá and one in Perdizes, which became operational in 2017. Together, they generate over 880 direct jobs and 2,000 indirect jobs. Bem Brasil produces more than 250,000 tons of frozen fried potatoes, and its offerings include more than twenty food service and retail items in Brazil. The company has continuously sought to adopt sustainable practices in its production line since its foundation 15 years ago. Bem Brasil Alimentos’s sustainable initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on the pillars of energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation. “Sustainable development meets the needs of the current generation, but without compromising the existence of future generations,” says Isabela Navarro, Sustainability Manager at Bem Brasil. “For this reason, corporate responsibility is in the company’s DNA, with an increasing sense of eco-efficient and transparent management. Unsustainable practices are doomed to fail,” she says. Waste management – ​​A highlight is the Circular Economy project. Its primary objective is to promote a shift away from a culture of linearity by adding value to previously discarded products. Waste management includes Styrofoam management. This is intended for companies that use Styrofoam as a raw material, such as the manufacture of blocks in civil construction. Currently, Bem Brasil uses this to build its cold storage chambers for fresh potatoes. Class I waste (hazardous waste) is sorted and stored in a separate location with controlled access. This goes to incineration companies instead of landfills. Bem Brasil also extracts starch in its production process, which goes to companies that use it as a by-product in the manufacture of glue and gum for textile products. The company handled about two thousand tons of starch over the last two years. All plastic and cardboard waste is now shipped for recycling and/or reverse logistics and transformed into by-products. Plastic is the raw material for bags and sacks, and cardboard is reused in boxes. The plastic and cardboard packages undergo a decharacterization process to safeguard the brands depicted on them and make it impossible for them to be deviated or misused.Fertigation – The wastewater generated by Bem Brasil undergoes proper treatment before it can be used for fertigation in the farms of Grupo Fazenda Água Santa in Perdizes. “We fertigated an average of 3,000 m³/day, totaling 84,000 m³/month in an area of ​​600 hectares encompassing various crops. This by-product is a source of NPK elements, thus contributing to a reduction in the use of fertilizers in crops,” says Isabela. During the anaerobic process in the wastewater treatment system, the biogas burned in the boiler is also used for energy. This saves at least 20% of biomass and prevents greenhouse gases from being released into the atmosphere. The current average biogas flow for energy generation is 45 m³/h. Thus, the gain in energy efficiency at the Araxá plant jumped from 800 kW to 1500 kW. The Perdizes plant has the potential for a four-fold increase in these metrics. Bem Brasil also engages in composting – all the organic waste from potatoes and ashes is used. According to Sustainability manager Isabela Navarro the company produces two thousand tons of organic compost per month on average, and these are applied on various crops covering an area of ​​10,000 hectares. “As a result of this action, we stopped emitting approximately 20,000 tons of CO2,” she says. Bem Brasil believes that it is possible to establish a self-sufficient and long-lasting production chain that draws on the famous Law of Lavoisier: “In nature nothing is lost, nothing is created, everything is transformed”.

Bem Brasil: Focuses on the circular economy for waste management, fertigation and composting

Based in Minas Gerais and a leader in the frozen fried potato business, Bem Brasil conducts a number of actions on an ongoing basis to ensure social and environmental responsibility

Waste management and reuse is Bem Brasil’s mantra

Renewable energy is a source of clean, inexhaustible energy, and its use provides numerous advantages for the company and the environment. It differs from fossil fuels primarily in its diversity and abundance, in addition to avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. Wind is one of the fastest growing renewable energy sources in the world, as it does not emit pollutants and also has an inexhaustible source for its generation – the power of wind.&nbsp;As of 2022, footwear manufacturing company Vulcabras will have all its manufacturing sites supplied with wind energy. Located in Itapetinga (BA) and Horizonte (CE), the plants will be supplied by one of the largest wind farms in the world: Rio do Vento, in Rio Grande do Norte. Operated by Casa dos Ventos, the farm will have a total installed capacity of 1,038 MW.The company’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.Vulcabras is the manager of sporting goods brands Mizuno, Olympikus and Under Armour. Founded in 1952 in Jundiaí (SP), it has more than 16,000 employees across six sites: two manufacturing plants located in Horizonte (CE) and Itapetinga (BA); and office sites in Jundiaí (SP) and in São Paulo (SP).Acquisition – The company, under a partnership with Casa dos Ventos – a leading company in the development of wind energy projects in the country –, made an investment of 150 million BRL to ensure that its plants are supplied with wind energy. The contract includes the supply of clean energy for a minimum period of 13 years. The company will supply all of Vulcabras' energy requirements, which is equivalent to an average of 7 megawatts (MW). “This is a historical moment for Vulcabras, which has as one of its values ​​thinking about tomorrow. The partnership with Casa dos Ventos reaffirms this value of ours, and shows that Vulcabras is concerned not only with achieving sustainability, but also taking the result of this to all Brazilian citizens,” says Vulcabras CEO Pedro Bartelle. Running shoes – Along with the use of renewable energy, Vulcabras also develops circular economy actions (rethinking, reducing, reusing, recycling, and refusing). Multiple actions are underway: rethinking production processes and habits and attitudes of employees; reducing waste generation and disposal; reusing products and ensuring the quality standard for responsible consumption; and recycling the waste generated by feeding it into the production chain or into the chain of strategic partnerships.All products are now part of the circular economy process, but a product fully developed with sustainable inputs was missing. With this in mind, Vulcabras developed, through the Olympikus brand, the Corre 1 Eco, which is a sustainable version of running shoes. Manufactured from recycled and renewable components, Corre 1 Eco uses materials such as EVA Verde, which is produced from sugarcane and is used in the sole and insole of the shoes. In addition, the upper is made from polyester threads that are recycled from plastic bottles, and on the sole there are also special rubbers extracted from rubber trees. Starting in 2022, all production will fully rely on wind energy.

Vulcabras: Company invests in clean energy in 100% of its production

As of 2022, footwear company Vulcabras will have all its manufacturing sites supplied with wind energy. Circular economy actions also play a key role

Vulcabras invests in clean energy in 100% of its production

Brazil is endowed with plenty of renewable resources for energy production, and boasts one of the cleanest energy mixes in the world. The search for striking a social and environmental balance has led the brewing industry to evaluate not only the environmental impact caused by its industrial processes, but also the consequences throughout the entire life cycle of its processes and products.Sustainability in breweries means – in addition to balance and concern for the environment – cost reductions and the resulting market competitiveness by adding more value to their output.&nbsp;The National Beer Industry Union (Sindicerv), which has Ambev and Heineken as members (together they account for 80% of beer production in Brazil), seeks to implement sustainable practices in the beer production and distribution process. Initiatives of member companies are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.“We are more and more committed to an agenda of environmental growth and development in Brazil, and always looking for sources that result in less impact on the environment. Our relentless actions focus on reducing carbon emissions throughout our production chain, from 'field to glass,'” says Sindicerv's legal counsel Fábio Ferreira. Together, Ambev and Heineken generate more than 2 million direct, indirect and induced jobs, accounting for 2% of Brazil’s GDP, 27 billion BRL in wages and 2.11% of total jobs in the economy.Wind power – Companies have been investing in wind power to supply power to factories. A wind farm is in operation with 14 turbines in Ceará, and in Bahia another wind farm is being built over an area covering 1,600 hectares. The goal is to generate 202 MWh/year.Member companies are also looking to replace fossil fuels such as natural gas and BBF oil and to replace non-renewable electricity with electricity from renewable sources such as biomass, vegetable oil and biogas. The sector already uses biomass from certified reforestation wood chips and vegetable oil.Three breweries are now fully supplied with renewable energy and, by 2023, the goal is for all production to be supplied with clean energy, thereby reducing carbon emissions to zero throughout the process.Electric vehicles – Companies are also looking to enhance the efficiency of cargo transport by optimizing fuel consumption and using more efficient vehicles to reduce carbon emissions. To achieve this, partnerships will be established in order to add more than 220 electric trucks to the fleet by the end of the year. The vehicles will also be fully powered by renewable energy, which will be generated by the sector itself either from its facilities or purchased from a certified renewable energy source. In addition, a project is underway to convert diesel trucks into electric vehicles.Forklifts powered by fossil fuels are now being replaced by electric forklifts at the distribution centers. By 2025, 100% of the forklift fleet will be electric. The switch to electric machines reduces CO2 emissions, in addition to reducing noise and making the maintenance and recharging process quicker. Sindicerv also has 130 commercial distribution centers throughout Brazil and, by 2023, 124 will be fully supplied with either clean energy or certified renewable energy.Regarding the refrigeration of products at points of sale, 100% of refrigerators currently follow global standards of efficiency, which brought about a 50% reduction in energy consumption and carbon emission at the consumer side. The equipment has sensors that track the hours of operation of the points of sale and trigger the stand-by mode when the venue becomes empty, turning off internal lights and adjusting the cooling system.

Sindicerv: Companies have been investing in wind power to supply power to factories

Brewing industry is seeking to implement pioneering and sustainable practices in the manufacturing and delivery of beer in Brazil

Sindicerv seeks social and environmental balance in the brewing industry

Plunged into an irrefutable climate crisis, the linear economy is reaching its limits. It is time to invest in the circular economy, where residues become inputs for new products, as occurs in nature, among other initiatives.With his watchful eye, mechanical engineer Cláudio Rocha Bastos became an advocate for this transformation when in 2000 he decided to invest in the company CBPAK, which operates in the business of converting cassava starch into disposable packaging. In 2013, the technology received the National Finep Technological Innovation Award; and, in the following year, CBPAK was ranked second in the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) Awards. In addition, Cláudio became a member of the Ellen McArthur Foundation.Cláudio Bastos – who has published scientific papers on climate change – wanted more: in 2017, he established TOCO Engenharia e Inovação Ambiental, which, from the malt bagasse waste generated by the beer industry, developed a proprietary technology and started to manufacture 100% biodegradable containers, thus eliminating the use of plastic in the development, transport and planting of seedlings.“Agribusiness seemed to be a rich realm for us to research new technologies,” says Cláudio as he explains how he came up with the idea of producing biodegradable tubes from the malt bagasse waste generated by the domestic brewing industry, thus transforming an environmental liability into an economic asset.“It’s the circular economy sowing the seeds of the future with technology,” muses Cláudio, and adds that the new company is a “paradigm shift in planting seedlings.” As such, TOCO’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.&nbsp;“Throughout the entire process of planting seedlings – from the nurseries to the field – biodegradable tubes are an environment-friendly, low-carbon solution that makes a real contribution to the management of water and solid waste and in full adherence to the principles of the circular economy,” says the company’s founder. “TOCO is a smart leading player in the planting process, because, in addition to making use of industrial waste that would otherwise be thrown away, it makes it possible to change tube formulation to provide the nutrients necessary for the best performance of each crop, species and soil,” he says. A new roadmap – But how does the new roadmap proposed by TOCO work in the stages of planting seedlings? First, the malt bagasse is transformed into 100% biodegradable tubes. There are two planting options: either the seeds placed in the TOCO tubes are immediately taken to the field to be planted in the soil with the containers (direct seeding) – which is not possible with plastic containers –, without spending some time at the nursery; or they are packed in tubes and kept in a nursery for 30-90 days before being taken to planting in the field (sowing of pre-germinated seeds). The tubes also do away with the need for reverse logistics since they decompose completely – and the nitrogen-rich malt bagasse provides nutrients to the seedlings, also reducing substrate costs. In addition, the TOCO technology contributes to forest conservation projects as it allows for an increase in the number of tree seedlings planted per hectare. Climate change – The mitigation of traditional plastic tubes by biodegradable tubes has led to a significant reduction in environmental impacts – mainly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in the stages of planting seedlings. According to Cláudio Bastos, TOCO makes a direct and measurable contribution to global programs to reduce CO2 emissions. “On 36,000 hectares planted with biodegradable tubes, the emission of 1 ton of CO2eq is avoided,” he says confidently.Distinguished partners – The positive impacts of biodegradable tubes are noticeable in the quality and survival of the seedlings and in the resulting yields. It is not by chance that TOCO Engenharia e Inovação Ambiental relies on distinguished partnerships such as with Embrapa and the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, which is conducting field tests in nurseries, such as the Vale Natural Reserve’s; Instituto Terra’s, Sebastião Salgado’s; the NGO SOS Mata Atlântica; and Suzano’s Arboretum Program.

TOCO: Biodegradable tubes from the malt bagasse waste

Entrepreneur innovates by transforming industrial waste into biodegradable tubes for planting seedlings

Sowing the seeds of the future with technology

The growing use of agrochemicals leads to the disposal of thousands of packages that not only generate waste, but can pollute soils and rivers and contaminate people. Brazil’s industrial sector is now investing in means to reuse or recycle these packages so that they do not become an environmental issue. Plastibras is an industrial company that employs state-of-the-art technology to produce High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and reuses plastic pesticide packages from several Brazilian states in the manufacture of corrugated pipes. With diameters ranging from 20&nbsp;mm to 200&nbsp;mm, the products are used on a large scale in infrastructure works in the electricity and telecommunications sectors and in business and residential buildings. Fibertex is based in Cuiabá (MT) and its initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.&nbsp;“In the recent past, these packages were buried, burned or dumped in the open, causing serious damage to the environment. Now they are reused, which generates jobs and income, in addition to serving as raw material for the production of various products,” says Plastibras CEO Adilson Valera Ruiz.Green Certification – Before being transformed into raw material, the packages undergo a triple rinse process. After the last rinse they are used in the production of resin, which is then used in the making of corrugated pipes and conduits. Plastibras’ facilities are included in the Cleaner Production Program, through which it performs the total reuse (100%) of the water used in the industrial process through an Effluent Treatment Station (ETE).Plastibras is the first company in the industrial sector in Brazil to receive the Selo Verde (Green Certification), which is granted by Instituto Ação Verde. This is a certificate of carbon neutralization in production, administrative and commercial processes. Plastibras also has an ISO 9001:2015 certificate, an important seal of excellence for industrial companies. Broad-based actions – In the socio-environmental front, Plastibras focuses on environmental education through presentations and visits to factory facilities and employee training. It also hosts recycling workshops for employees and their children. Plastibras also has collection outlets for organics, metals, plastics and paper, and also collects materials for sale (cardboard, tapes, etc.). The proceeds are used in actions for the benefit of employees.

Plastibras: Reuses pesticide packaging in the manufacture of corrugated pipes 

State-of-the-art technology is used for greater efficiency at all stages of the production process

Plastibras reuses pesticide packaging in the manufacture of corrugated pipes

Large corporations around the world are striving to reduce the adverse environmental impact of their livestock production by committing, in some cases, to carbon neutral targets for the coming decades.As such, DSM, a global Dutch company with a focus on health, nutrition and bioscience, has developed Bovaer, an animal nutritional supplement that promises to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cattle – notably methane (CH4). The goal is to contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of beef, milk and dairy products. During COP26, in Glasgow, Scotland, an unprecedented initiative was launched: more than 100 countries committed to reduce methane emission levels by 30% by 2030 as part of the drive to mitigate global warming. The focus has always been on CO2, and now methane is also in the radar.DSM’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.&nbsp;DSM has plants in Pecém (CE), Marabá (PA), Ibiporã (PR), Mairinque, and São Paulo (SP), and in September it received clearance to market Bovaer in Brazil and Chile. Thus, the two countries became early adopters of this supplement. According to DSM, Bovaer is a scientifically tested solution to tackle the challenge of methane from belching cattle: a quarter of a teaspoon of the solution per cow per day reduces enteric methane emissions by about 30% for dairy cows, and at even higher percentages – up to 90% – for beef cattle. This is how it works: the solution takes effect immediately after the animal has fed by suppressing methane production in the stomach. It is then decomposed without compromising the animal’s welfare.Clean Cow – Known as the Clean Cow project, the collaborative effort made by scientists and partners around the creation of Bovaer took more than ten years and included 45 tests in farms on four continents. More than 48 papers on the supplement have been published in independent scientific journals.A test involving Bovaer conducted at the State University of São Paulo (Unesp) in 2016-2017, for example, revealed reductions in enteric methane emissions of up to 55%. In non-tropical regions, the reduction could be as high as 35%, the study showed. “The Bovaer beef test conducted at Unesp emphasizes the supplement’s potential for a radically more sustainable livestock farming in Latin America,” says Mauricio Adade, DSM CEO for Latin America. “We are eager to collaborate with Brazil’s agricultural sectors to further reduce their carbon footprint,” he says in conclusion.DSM Program Director Mark van Nieuwland agrees. “The latest report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change stated that a rapid reduction in methane emissions could reduce the spread of global warming in the short term and have a positive effect on air quality. We know that the agricultural sectors are aware of this opportunity for change and are eager to act.” Dogs – In 2017, the Technology Center for the Chemical and Textile Industry (Senai CETIQT) in Rio de Janeiro became a partner in a project that also involves livestock and sustainability in the industry. ​The Fur You project is an initiative by veterinarian and fashion designer Dóris Carvalho from Goiânia (GO), and the idea is to minimize waste from pet shops and veterinary clinics and make a sustainable use of their waste – which is generally dumped in landfills – by using dog hair from grooming as raw material for the production of textile yarn. Dóris believes that a city like Goiânia, with 1.5 million inhabitants, produces around 3.5 tons of hair from dog grooming every month. The project led to a new fiber that can be used in the making of products such as bags, shoes and clothing. Production of the yarn was successful following tests with a machine that CETIQT uses for innovative textile projects. According to Dóris, negotiations are underway on waste collection, separation and sterilization, and these will be carried out by a cooperative of former female inmates seeking a new opportunity for social reintegration.Dóris also said that “the research to find other natural fibers continues, but the goal is to use pet grooming waste to the maximum possible extent to produce items.” She also informed that the first collection will be launched in early 2022.

DSM and Senai CETIQT: The animals and the industry

Global company initiative seeks to mitigate impacts of cattle ranching, while Senai CETIQT reuses hair from dog grooming

Friends of the environment

Earlier this month, Nestlé Brasil announced the sustainability commitments it has undertaken nationally to fast-track achievement of the company’s global ambitions related climate targets. Brazil is the fourth largest market for Nestlé, which is the world’s leading food producer.Nestlé is a signatory to the United Nations (UN) Business Ambition for 1.5°C commitment and has a global plan to halve its net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 and to achieve zero net emissions by 2050. Actions affect supply chains, plants, transport systems, and products. In Brazil, Nestlé has three pillars towards these goals. One of these is regenerative agriculture. The aim is to produce food while restoring habitats, protecting biodiversity around production areas, and reducing GHG emissions, thereby creating a positive impact through its primary supply chains, such as coffee, milk and cocoa.The second pillar involves the concept of circularity to reduce and eliminate wastage in packaging production. The third pillar focuses on the bioeconomy by supporting Brazil’s biomes and the communities that live in them through sustainable business. As such, Nestlé’s actions are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.&nbsp;Influence – “Sustainability is a cross-cutting theme throughout the company, which involves the entire organization and value chain – and this allows business to evolve towards more sustainable models,” says Fabio Spinelli, Nestlé Brasil’s Head of Strategic Planning, M&amp;A and Sustainability.&nbsp; “Climate change is one of the single biggest challenges facing humanity and one of the largest risks for the future of our business – so addressing it requires urgent action from all of us,” says Melchior. “As the largest food and beverage corporation in the world, we have the scale, representativeness, capabilities, and expertise to influence other people and inspire collective, high-impact actions by working closely with the production chains, organizations and various links in the food system that are critical to engage and transform our industry,” he adds. Regeneration – Goals set for Brazil include adopting a regenerative approach to source 30% of the main raw materials by 2025. This includes recycling all the plastic released into the Brazilian market and conserving 300,000 hectares of land in the Amazon, thus generating income and promoting education for 4,000 people.Nestlé Brasil CEO Marcelo Melchior argues that the Brazilian market should play a leading role as part of the global transition to scaled regenerative food systems. “The local commitments undertaken by the company in Brazil are critical in fulfilling the global commitment, and regeneration is now a very meaningful word for Nestlé,” says Melchior. “Regeneration has a positive impact on practices that drive soil health and fertility improvement; sequester carbon; protect and restore natural resources such as water; foster biodiversity; and address waste – all of this with a focus also on improving the daily lives of producers and the welfare of farmer communities”, he says.These strategies and initiatives include numerous actions, such as innovation and new techniques along the supply chains. They also include forest restoration and the use of various biodiversity assets from a sustainable business perspective by empowering communities that live in the Amazon Forest and generate income from the responsible use of resources. In addition, the company fuels the circular economy with investments in recyclable and reusable packaging and partnerships with recycling cooperatives while developing new chains for discarded materials. Programs – Under the regenerative agriculture pillar, Nestlé encourages food growing and the goal of sourcing 30% of raw materials through these models by 2025. In the coffee production chain, the Cultivando com Respeito program (Growing with Respect) was created ten years ago and is the largest sustainable coffee growing program in the world: 1.2 thousand farms are certified, with 100% traceability and 85% of farms adopting regenerative practices. Nestlé announced that it will become the first carbon neutral producer of coffee capsules, instant coffee, and roasted and ground coffee through its brands Nespresso and Nescafé by 2022. The Sustainable Practices Program for the milk production chain has been around for over 15 years. In 2021, the company announced a partnership with the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) to develop the first national protocol for low-carbon dairy farming and the first Net Zero dairy farms in the country. Nestlé also announced that 100% of supplier properties will rely on water management by 2022. By the end of 2020, the 60 dairy farms participating in the program had saved more than 19 million liters of water – an 8% reduction compared to 2019.In addition, the company boasts achievements such as more than 1,100 certified growers in the cocoa supply chain and the use of geo-monitoring in supplier farms, thereby boosting the traceability of raw materials. Satellite imagery helps to continuously monitor properties and any changes in land cover, in addition to signs of deforestation. The Cocoa Plan best practices program has been in existence for over ten years, and it has a focus on minimizing social and environmental impacts and improving quality. The goal is to have 100% of the Brazilian cocoa supply chain certified by 2025. As for circularity, Nestlé’s goal is to remove 100% of the plastic that it releases in the Brazilian market by 2025, and has been fostering the circular economy, which generates income and opportunities. The company supports more than 10,000 collectors in 1,300 cities and towns in Brazil through partnerships with Cataki, Reciclar pelo Brasil and Cidades Mais. In 2019, Nestlé announced the RE initiative, which proposes to rethink the company’s operations as a whole and to engage other stakeholders and partners in promoting more sustainable practices. All in all, 95% of Nestlé’s packaging in Brazil is designed to be recycled or reused. The goal is to make all its packaging recyclable or reusable around the world by 2025, in an effort that will involve rethinking materials, developing selective collection chains and engaging and raising awareness of consumers and partners.In September, Nestlé also announced its global Generation Regeneration initiative, which will rely on 1.2 billion Swiss francs worldwide over the next few years to encourage regenerative agriculture.

Nestlé: Becoming the first carbon neutral producer of coffee capsules

Nestlé Brasil announces sustainability commitments for the country, including becoming the first carbon neutral producer of coffee capsules, instant coffee, and roasted and ground coffee

Food giant sets goals for a regenerative future

Dengo was created with the purpose of offering pure Brazilian chocolates – with more cocoa, less sugar, no artificial essences or aromas or hydrogenated fats – from a special supply chain in support of small and medium producers who grow coffee and cocoa responsibly in southern Bahia’s forests. In other words, the idea is to encourage producers, preserve nature and inspire consumers by reconciling income generation and forest conservation while reflecting Brazil’s natural endowments and uniqueness.The Brazilian brand of coffees and chocolates Dengo was launched in 2017 and committed to training its rural producers and to paying the best price in the market from its inception, while supporting them and contributing to the livelihoods of local communities. It also vouches for the quality of the fruits and seeds it produces. Once Dengo’s chocolate is harvested, refined and processed properly, it is lightly packaged in order to further reduce its environmental footprint.The company’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy, in particular with regard to the forest conservation pillar.Cabruca – The brand chose to add value to rural production by managing agroforestry systems, diversifying business lines and expanding sustainable production. As such, it only uses suppliers working with cabruca – a type of cocoa crop in an agroforestry system –, where native trees from the Atlantic Forest region, such as pau-brasil and jequitibá, are used to provide shade to cocoa trees. The approach to production obviously influences the quality of the final product: in order to grow, cocoa needs adequate soil, proper shading and a favorable climate. Under cabruca, cocoa grows in an environment that is rich in nutrients, flavors and aromas. When shaded by natural vegetation, cocoa trees produce better fruits. In addition, the prevailing approach to processing in the region – collection, fermentation and drying – helps to enhance the quality of cabruca cocoa.Fazer diferente – ​​Estevan Sartoreli and Guilherme Leal – the brand’s masterminds – believe that all the social and environmental care throughout the production chain should culminate in a remarkable result: a Brazilian chocolate of exquisite quality. “Indeed, it is possible to do things differently and create sustainable models that share value along their chain,” says Sartoreli, who worked in the marketing of cosmetics multinational Natura alongside Leal, founder of both brands. A total of 160 families in southern Bahia are currently working for Dengo.Packaging – Sustainability is also a consideration in the final presentation of the products, which can be purchased in large pieces, by weight, or in bulk, using less packaging. Packages are primarily made from paper. Cardboard boxes – which can be reused – are also an option. On special dates, some Dengo products are entirely wrapped in chita, a typically Brazilian fabric that can be reused in various ways. The brand currently maintains 29 own stores across Brazil, in addition to a concept store in São Paulo that promises “sensory experiences and purpose.” “This is a little piece of Bahia in São Paulo!” – says Estevan Sartoreli playfully.

Dengo: Real chocolate

A Brazilian company is revolutionizing the cocoa supply chain

Real chocolate

Having a more sustainable production process means minimizing environmental risks, reducing impacts and preventing issues from occurring in the industrial process. The brewing industry has been adopting sustainable practices in breweries through circular economy, reverse logistics, sustainable packaging, and actions to minimize the use of energy and water.Brands under the Grupo Petrópolis umbrella include beer brands (Crystal, Lokal, Itaipava, Black Princess, Petra, and Weltenburger); energy drinks (TNT Energy Drink and Magneto); isotonic drinks (TNT); vodkas (Blue Spirit Ice and Nordka); Cabaré ICE; and Petra water, and the Group implements sustainable actions along its production process.The company’s initiatives are in line with the strategy of the National Confederation of Industry (CNI) towards a low-carbon economy in Brazil based on four pillars: energy transition, carbon market, circular economy, and forest conservation.“Sustainability is a strategic matter for Grupo Petrópolis. We are wary of climate change and the preservation of natural resources, and we engage in actions to build a healthier environment and to empower the communities where we operate,” says Alaércio Nicoletti Jr, Sustainability and Continuous Improvement Manager. Figures – The company manages waste throughout all stages of operation. In 2020, 244,000 tons of waste were reused, beneficiaries included 1.5 thousand people, and sales of recyclables generated 12.2 million Brazilian reais. Approximately 11 tons of post-consumer waste were reclaimed and fed back into Grupo Petrópolis’s production chain. As part of selective collection efforts, tires were reused for the production of synthetic grass for sports and social leisure applications. As many as 10,300 tires were reused.The avoided disposal of waste in landfills prevented the emission of 2 thousand tons of CO2. In addition, 3.5 thousand packages were collected as part of a sustainability action conducted during the Carnaval festival in Salvador.Itaipava labels are 100% recycled and the company is considering expanding this to other products. There was also a 43% reduction in the weight of PET bottle caps, with a reduction in consumption of 17 tons of plastic in 2020.Clean energy – The Group also uses renewable fuels such as biomass at its plants in Boituva (SP) and Rondonópolis (MT). It also makes use of technological equipment to reduce energy consumption; LED lamps and natural lighting in the filling lines and process areas; natural ventilation and solar heating in changing rooms; and an air conditioning system with direct expansion units using coils that are cooled with ice water. It has also deployed distributed photovoltaic generation systems at the Rio das Ostras (RJ) dealer sites, serving this site and the Campo dos Goytacazes (RJ) site. In terms of water conservation and reuse, Grupo Petrópolis has reduced its consumption rate by 35% (hectoliters of water for each hectoliter produced). The company – Founded in the city of Petrópolis in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, Grupo Petrópolis&nbsp;is the largest company that is fully Brazilian owned in the industry. It produces beers and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with a focus on quality.Grupo Petrópolis&nbsp;currently has operations in virtually all regions of the country, with 8 beverage plants (Petrópolis - RJ, Teresópolis - RJ, Boituva - SP, Bragança Paulista - SP, Rondonópolis - MT, Alagoinhas - BA, Itapissuma - PE, and Uberaba - MG), one packaging and recycling site (Boituva - SP) and more than 160 distribution sites.

Grupo Petrópolis: The brewing industry is pursuing sustainability

The largest company that is fully Brazilian owned in the brewing industry is pursuing sustainability through circular economy, reverse logistics, sustainable packaging, and actions to minimize the use of energy and water

The green transformation has already begun

Brazilian industry embraces the low carbon economy.
Our performance is focused on:

Energy Transition

Circular Economy

Carbon Market

Conservation of Forests

Cases

The industry leads the way

TOCO

Biodegradable tubes from the malt bagasse waste

Plastibras

Reuses pesticide packaging in the manufacture of corrugated pipes

DSM and Senai CETIQT

The animals and the industry

Nestlé

Becoming the first carbon neutral producer of coffee capsules

Dengo

Real chocolate

Grupo Petrópolis

The brewing industry is pursuing sustainability

News

Our Numbers

The green transformation has already begun

Brazilian industry embraces the low carbon economy.Our performance is focused on:

Energy Transition

Circular Economy

Carbon Market

Conservation of Forests

Cases

The industry leads the way

TOCO

Biodegradable tubes from the malt bagasse waste

Plastibras

Reuses pesticide packaging in the manufacture of corrugated pipes

DSM and Senai CETIQT

The animals and the industry

Nestlé

Becoming the first carbon neutral producer of coffee capsules

Dengo

Real chocolate

Grupo Petrópolis

The brewing industry is pursuing sustainability

News

Our Numbers

Brazilian industry embraces the low carbon economy.
Our performance is focused on: