Portuguese 
Campo Limpo System has correctly disposed of over 932,000 tons since 2002 and is on track to reach a historic milestone of 1 million tons by early 2027
Brazil has developed, over the last two decades, a comprehensive reverse logistics system for empty agricultural pesticide containers. Currently, about 92% of the returned material is sent for recycling, according to data presented by the sector.
Since 2002, the Campo Limpo System has correctly disposed of over 932,000 tons of containers. Moreover, the expectation is to reach the milestone of 1 million tons by early 2027. For 2026, the forecast is to receive 87,500 tons.
This performance stands out especially when compared to the overall scenario of solid waste in Brazil.
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Urban recycling still faces challenges in Brazil
In 2025, Brazil generated 81.6 million tons of urban solid waste, according to data from the Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment (Abrema).
Of this total, 7.1 million tons were recycled. In contrast, approximately 40% were improperly disposed of.
In this context, the National Solid Waste Policy establishes responsibilities for manufacturers, distributors, retailers, consumers, and government authorities.
Reverse logistics is one of the key components of this model. Through it, products, packaging, and materials can return after consumption for reuse, recycling, or environmentally appropriate disposal.
In the agribusiness sector, however, agricultural pesticide containers show significant results.
Brazil stands out in the disposal of agricultural pesticide containers
According to the presented figures, about 92% of agricultural pesticide containers returned in Brazil are sent for recycling.
This percentage surpasses the rates reported for other markets. France, Germany, and Canada collect approximately 70%. Japan reaches 50%, while the United States records an estimated rate of 30%.
Behind the Brazilian model is the National Institute for the Processing of Empty Packaging (inpEV), a non-profit organization formed by the sector itself.
The institute coordinates the Campo Limpo System and also created the National Day of Campo Limpo. On August 18, 2026, the initiative will celebrate its 22nd edition.
This date is part of the national calendar and aims to increase environmental awareness while recognizing the contributions of various participants in the agribusiness chain.
From Farmer to Industry: How Reverse Logistics Works
The operation relies on shared responsibility among various participants.
After using the agricultural pesticide, the producer must send the empty container to the designated location. Returns can occur at units associated with the accountable channels.
Before handing it over, the farmer must perform triple rinsing or pressure washing, when applicable. Additionally, the container must be rendered unusable to prevent its reuse.
The container must be returned within one year. Subsequently, the producer receives a delivery receipt, which must be kept for five years.
Meanwhile, distributors and cooperatives communicate the appropriate return locations. The industry funds the system and the collection of containers for final disposal.
In turn, the government licenses and supervises the receiving units.
Thus, each link has a role within the chain.
Over 932,000 Tons Properly Disposed Since 2002
The scale achieved by the program is reflected in the progress of processed volumes.
In the first year of operation, approximately 3,800 tons were processed. More than two decades later, the annual volume reached around 76,000 tons.
Since 2002, the cumulative total exceeds 932,000 tons of empty containers disposed of properly.
Now, the expectation is to reach 1 million tons by early 2027.
Additionally, reverse logistics practices are beginning to expand to other agricultural waste, such as feed sacks, fertilizers, and veterinary products. However, challenges regarding final disposal still exist in these areas.
Recycled Containers Help Reduce Emissions
Recycling also has an impact related to emissions.
According to the data presented, each 20-liter container produced from recycled resin avoids the emission of 1.24 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent.
Thus, one hundred containers represent approximately 124 kilograms of emissions avoided.
Campo Limpo, a Brazilian company dedicated to manufacturing recycled containers for agricultural pesticides, has a production capacity of 17 million units per year.
Additionally, the system received the Gold Seal from the Brazilian GHG Protocol Program for the 2025 cycle, coordinated by the Center for Sustainability Studies at the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGVces).
Of the material returned to the system, approximately 92% is recycled and can be transformed back into products, including packaging intended for the sector itself.
The remaining 8% does not have suitable characteristics for recycling.
Therefore, these materials are disposed of in an environmentally adequate manner through coprocessing, with energy recovery, or incineration.
Consequently, 100% of the packaging effectively returned to the system receives environmentally correct disposal.
Brazilian model focuses on shared responsibility
The results achieved since 2002 depend on the joint participation of farmers, industry, distributors, cooperatives, and the public sector.
While producers prepare and return the packaging correctly, distribution channels guide the process. Meanwhile, the industry finances the necessary infrastructure for transport and disposal.
The public sector manages the licensing and inspection of the units.
Thus, the model has transformed the reverse logistics of agricultural pesticide containers into a large-scale operation in the country.
With over 932,000 tons disposed of since 2002, a forecast of 87,500 tons in 2026, and the prospect of reaching 1 million in 2027, the Campo Limpo System has established itself as a recycling benchmark in Brazilian agribusiness.
Do you believe the Brazilian model for recycling agricultural pesticide containers could serve as an example to enhance reverse logistics in other sectors of the country?
