Project raises awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and generates savings for participating families
Between January and September 2024, TCP, the company managing the Paranaguá Container Terminal, collected over 65 tons of recyclable materials through the Troca Solidária project. Launched in 2015, the project aims to raise awareness among the population about the importance of collecting, separating, and properly disposing of waste, encouraging sustainable practices in the region.
With an average of 89 participants per month this year, the project uses a mobile boat for collecting materials in island communities and has two fixed collection points on Valadares Island. The Troca Solidária also generates savings for families, who can exchange recyclable waste for a social currency used to purchase food and hygiene products at the floating market, where prices are up to 40% lower than those in retail stores.
Among the most sought-after items by participants are beans, rice, and sugar. During the June and Christmas holiday seasons, seasonal items such as popcorn, hominy, and panettones are also included as purchasing options at the floating market.
According to Rafael Stein, Institutional and Legal Manager at TCP, community engagement increased in 2024: “We have noticed greater satisfaction among participating families, which confirms the success and social reach of the project. Besides promoting environmental preservation, the Troca Solidária is a comprehensive initiative, as it directly impacts the quality of life for families in Paranaguá.”
Over 500 Tons Collected in 9 Years
In 2024, the Troca Solidária project served eight collection points, including Amparo, Europinha, Eufrasina, Piaçaguera, Ponta de Ubá, São Miguel, and two fixed points on Valadares Island. On Valadares Island alone, an average of 48 participants were served each month.
In the island communities, where collection is done by the mobile boat, which also functions as a floating market, the average monthly participation was 40 participants.
Over nine years, the project has benefited around 700 participants and directed more than 500 tons of waste to the Nova Esperança Association of Collectors and Recyclers, located on Valadares Island. “By ensuring proper disposal, we prevent these wastes from reaching the sea or being burned, which could cause unprecedented environmental harm to the fauna and flora in Paranaguá Bay,” Stein highlights.
Thanks to this support, the products offered to residents come at more affordable prices than those in the market. To achieve this, TCP seeks suppliers with competitive prices to stock the market items and is responsible for logistical costs, including collecting recyclables with the mobile boat and transporting products. The project is also carried out in partnership with the Municipality of Paranaguá and Acquaplan, an environmental consulting firm that assists in executing Solidarity Exchange.
