BVRio joins knowledge exchange mission to foster plastic circularity in Brazil

Last week, BVRio participated in a crucial international mission in Europe, at the invitation of the Circular Plastics in The Americas Program (CPAP) – Brazil & Colombia. BVRio joined the high-profile Brazilian delegation that included experts from the public and private sectors. The primary focus of the mission was to engage in discussions about opportunities for cooperation, present innovative solutions, and develop strategies to advance the circular economy in Brazil.

BVRio and the delegation made visits to the city halls of Paris and Copenhagen, renowned for their pioneering approaches to urban planning and commitment to nurturing circular businesses. These visits provided invaluable insights into the innovative practices that had established these cities as global leaders in sustainability.

Pedro Succar, BVRio circular economy specialist, who participated in the mission, said that “exchanges such as the one organised by CPAP are vitally important for experiencing in practice the implementation of initiatives and regulations related to waste management and the reduction of plastic use. The mission was critical to understand the local reality, learn about the implementation challenges and gain experience in best practices. This is fundamental to accelerate a more sustainable and equitable transition appropriate to our reality.” 

The mission included a diverse array of activities, such as matchmaking sessions, roundtable discussions, and technical visits, aimed at fostering international business alliances. These alliances were founded on rigorous research, effective public policies, cutting-edge technology, and the success stories of these European cities. The aim was to inspire and catalyse sustainable practices back in Brazil.

In addition to the core mission objectives, the delegation delved into several important topics:

• Green financing: Exploring opportunities for financing a new circular economic model focusing on green financing and novel market mechanisms that support innovation and circularity within the plastic value chain.

• Technical assistance/advocacy: Working towards promoting Integrated and Circular Solid Waste Management in Rio de Janeiro, with a particular emphasis on the recovery and recycling of plastics.

• Sustainable public procurement: Collaborating with public administrations and governmental bodies to encourage municipal purchases that align with circularity principles, while also inspiring the private sector to offer suitable goods and services.

• Plastic consumption reduction: Showcasing business cases encouraging the reduction of single-use plastic in tourism and leisure-related services.