Brazil's federal government has introduced a nationwide „logística reversa“ system for plastic packaging by decree.
The system covers primary, secondary and tertiary packaging as well as „equivalent“ plastic products such as cups, plates and cutlery. Packaging that is already covered by its own take-back systems (e.g. agrochemicals, lubricating oils) and composite packaging with paper/cardboard are excluded. The central principle is the prioritisation of cooperatives of waste collectors along planning, implementation and operation. Companies can fulfil the requirements individually or in collective models via an „entidade gestora“; annual results reports must be submitted via SINIR by 30 July.
Two key figures are a must: recovery and recyclate content
The link between the Index de recuperação (recovery rate) and Index de conteúdo reciclado (minimum recycled content) is new. Nationally, the recovery rate will increase from 32 % (2026) to 50 % (2040). At the same time, the prescribed recyclate content in plastic packaging will increase from 22 % (2026) to 40 % (2040). The recyclate pathway will apply to large companies from January 2026 and to small and medium-sized enterprises from July 2026; packaging with specific regulation (including food) is exempt from this.
Geographical coverage and infrastructure
In order to achieve nationwide achievability, the decree stipulates points for voluntary returns (PEVs) by no later than four years after publication: at least one PEV per municipality up to 10,000 inhabitants, and one PEV per 10,000 inhabitants above that. If the target achievement is demonstrably exceeded, the number of PEVs can be reduced.
Obligations along the value chain
Manufacturers, importers, retailers and distributors must ensure the financial viability of their take-back systems, report data in the SINIR or black box system and organise transport for sorting, recycling, re-use or PCR production. Importers must state their responsibilities to the authorities; violations can lead to an import licence being checked. Recyclers may only be involved with a valid environmental licence. The consumer role is remarkable: Packaging should be cleaned, separated and - where possible - handed in with the labels removed or made unrecognisable. Commercial take-back centres are obliged to treat reusable and disposable fractions separately.
Source: Secretaria Especial Para Assuntos Jurídicos
