Recycling of PP, PS, LDPE and PVC plastics in Guarulhos - SP, Brazil (PWRS)

This project buys plastic waste from four NGOs that collect and supply post-consumer plastic waste in São Paulo, using proceeds to support social and environmental causes.

Brazil generates nearly 500 billion single-use plastic items annually, with inadequate waste management leading to 1.3 million tonnes of plastic entering the ocean each year - about 8% of the global total. 

This project tackles this by mechanically recycling plastic waste, reducing ocean pollution and providing recycled feedstock to help reduce the use of virgin plastic.

The project sources post-consumer plastic waste through partnerships with four NGOs that lead community-based collection initiatives that mobilize local residents to collect items like bottle caps and ring pulls, which are then sold to the project for recycling. The proceeds support each NGO’s social or environmental mission, ranging from cancer treatment for children to animal welfare and disability care. This model empowers communities and drives local impact.

The project recycles Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). The recycled feedstock is used in the production of automotive spare parts, artificial grass, and packaging materials, thereby displacing virgin plastic use and reducing the carbon footprint of these industries.

The additional financing from plastic credit sales will be used to expand the recycling capacity of the facility, allowing for the collection and processing of more plastic waste across Brazil. This includes investments in equipment upgrades, improved logistics and expanding partnerships with community-based collectors and NGOs.