The new regulation on reverse logistics of plastic, published on October 21, opens a transformation cycle for the Brazilian industry.The decree, which sets increasing collection and recycling targets by 2040, changes the role of companies in waste management and points to an increasingly circular economy.
For Eduardo Nascimento, CEO of Minha Coleta, the advance represents more than a legal adaptation: it is a watershed in the relationship between sustainability and competitiveness.“O Brazil begins to align its practices to what is already a global trend: integrate recycled plastic in the production chain and prove the correct destination of waste. It is not only an environmental issue, but a business model of”, says the executive.
The new standard defines that, by 2026, companies will recover at least 32% of plastic packaging placed on the market, with regional targets and mandatory tracking by the National Information System on Solid Waste Management (SINIR). The percentage rises to 37% in 2030 and reaches 50% in 2040, with the possibility of rebates for returnable packaging.
Eduardo explains that the decree also brings an unprecedented point: the mandatory use of post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR) in packaging. The requirement begins in January 2026 for large companies and in July of the same year for micro, small and medium. The minimum index will be 22% in 2026, gradually growing until 30% in 2030. “This is a structural change because it forces the industry to see value in waste. Recycled plastic is no longer a byproduct and becomes an” input, notes the CEO.
In the expert's assessment, the measure should boost entire production chains, generating new opportunities for innovation. He points out that the mandatory proof through invoices and the Waste Transport Manifesto (WTR) brings a gain in traceability and transparency that the sector has been waiting for years. “A formalization of reverse logistics credits and control by SINIR should reduce informality and increase the trust of the” market, he adds.
The text of the decree also reinforces the role of cooperatives and waste pickers, in addition to requiring communication plans and environmental education. For Nascimento, this point is crucial. To paraphrase the executive, the transformation will only be effective when companies and consumers act together social engagement is as important as meeting the goals. “Companies need to go beyond the gathering. It is necessary to invest in environmental education, in campaigns and in strengthening cooperatives, which are the basis of this CHAIN”, he says.
Although the decree establishes deadlines and obligations, Eduardo considers that it opens a window of opportunity for those who know how to anticipate. According to him, companies that structure their reverse logistics programs and create local partnerships will have gains in reputation, efficiency and brand positioning. “Sustainability is no longer a discourse to become a criterion of value. Whoever understands this first, will lead the new economy of plastic”, he summarizes.
From now on, all companies, including individual microentrepreneurs, must prove by July 30 of each year the fulfillment of the goals for the previous period. The challenge, according to the CEO, will not only be to reach the numbers, but to build a business culture focused on circularity. “Esse is the time to transform obligation into strategy. The decree is the beginning of a profound change, not the end of it.”
