GRI 306-1 Waste generation and significant waste-related impacts
Our waste management procedures align with the Brazilian National Waste Management Policy (PNRS). We ensure compliance at all times with our Environmental Policy and Waste Management Plan (PGRS). Waste is among the KPIs that is tracked within our Integrated Management System. This KPI is regularly communicated to employees throughout the year to track performance.
Bracell’s approach to waste management is based on three circular economy principles:
- Reduce waste volumes generated in the process
- Re-utilize materials whenever possible
- Recycle waste in partnership with third parties where waste reduction or reuse is not possible
We are implementing practices aligned with circular economy principles, transforming our value chain and production processes to minimize environmental impacts. As part of these practices, industrial waste management systems are designed to support:
- Eco-efficiency: minimizing waste generation through optimized production processes
- Waste recovery: transforming byproducts into inputs for other value chains, such as biomass-derived fuels, soil amendments, and organic fertilizers
- A circular value chain: recycling waste back into the production process through resource recovery and closed-loop processes.
We produce kraft, rayon-grade and specialty-grade pulp, supplying a range of global markets. We also operate in the tissue paper market through Bracell Papéis, a facility that produces toilet paper, paper towels, napkins and diapers (see more in GRI 2-6 About Bracell).
We generate waste throughout the pulp and paper manufacturing processes, as well as in our forestry operations (see GRI 306-3 Waste generated for data on waste generation by type and operation).
In our forestry operations, we leave post-harvest eucalyptus residues—such as bark, branches, and leaves—on plantation areas to increase organic matter in the soil. Pulpwood sent to the mill also generates residues such as bark, branches, leaves, sawdust, and debarking waste.
The pulp manufacturing process also generates waste such as lime mud and boiler ash, grits, and dregs. Both mill and forestry operations also generate waste such as packaging and oils, which are sent for recycling, reuse, energy recovery, co-processing, landfilling, and other methods of disposal (see more under GRI 306-4 Waste diverted from disposal and GRI 306-5 Waste directed to disposal).
Our Bracell 2030 roadmap includes a landfill waste reduction target
In pulp production, our target is to reduce landfilling of Class II industrial waste by 90% per metric ton of product by 2030, reaching 5 kg/adt.
In 2024, we surpassed our annual target, reaching 27.1 kg/adt of waste sent to landfills per metric ton of pulp produced. This result significantly outperformed our annual target of 43.7 kg/adt.
We have also set a target to reach 97% recovery of caustic soda (NaOH) and quicklime (CaO) in pulp production. In 2024, we met the reduction target with a 96.20% recovery rate (see more about our Bracell 2030 targets and commitments in GRI 2-22 Statement on sustainable development strategy).
GRI 306-2 Management of significant waste-related impacts
Potential impacts associated with waste materials generated in our pulp production process include the use of land for landfills. To minimize potential land-use impacts, Bracell seeks to reduce the amount of waste it generates in its operations through practices to improve eco-efficiency.
Waste from both forestry and mill operations is classified, segregated, stored and transported in compliance with legal requirements and our Waste Management Plan. Preventive checklists include environmental requirements on managing waste, such as the availability of spill kits to be used during equipment maintenance. Bracell also has practices in place for reducing the amount of waste we generate.
At our mill in São Paulo, as part of our circular economy efforts, we partner with external organizations to produce soil amendments and organic compost. We are actively working to reduce waste generation, especially as annual production output continues to increase.
Waste generated at the pulp mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP) is weighed daily using the plant’s weigh bridge, with waste tonnage documented in waste waybills. The data are recorded in internal systems. At the end of each month, this information is consolidated, environmental KPIs are generated, and reports are published, including our Sustainability Report and other reports required by the environmental regulator, Cetesb. Waste is classified by type and destination, also in accordance with environmental regulations.
At the plant in the Camaçari Industrial Park (BA), operations run 24/7. Waste is collected at designated points and transported by a third-party company to storage areas or for outbound shipment. Each movement is recorded, using a conversion factor to estimate weight from volume. This supports accurate accounting of generated waste volumes and disposal methods (landfill, recycling, or resale), and allows us to track performance indicators such as total waste generated per metric ton of pulp produced.
At Bracell Papéis, specifically at the Feira de Santana (BA) mill, waste management is also supported by spreadsheets to record waste invoice data and weights. Monitoring is done monthly and is site-specific. All waste leaves the plant with an issued waste waybill for traceability. This site also maintains an up-to-date Waste Management Plan as a management support tool.
The Bracell Papéis Sudeste facility, located at the Lençóis Paulista (SP) site, most of the waste generated consists of recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, and wood. Waste data and the corresponding waste waybills are logged internally. Waste materials are mostly sold. More than 90% of the waste generated at the facility is recyclable and sent to partner companies, as part of our commitment to the circular economy.
In line with the principles of reduction, reuse, and recycling, we have implemented several initiatives in our operations, such as:
Woodchip preparation
Appropriate clone selection and forest management and harvesting techniques help to ensure that our pulpwood logs have minimal bark and can be optimally used in production. This reduces waste in the woodchip preparation stage and the screener stage of the fiber line.
Repurposing bark and sawdust
Eucalyptus bark and sawdust are used as biomass in kilns and boilers, replacing fossil fuels like natural gas and reducing the need for landfilling. Excess waste from energy generation, when caused by equipment downtime, is sent to external partners for energy recovery or used in the rehabilitation of degraded land.
Use of lime mud
Lime mud, generated during kiln start-up and shutdown, is recovered in the production process or, when it cannot be diluted in the chemical recovery system, is sent to external partners for the production of soil amendments.
GRI 306-3 Waste generated
In 2024, Bracell significantly reduced the volume of industrial waste sent to landfills, driven by the expansion of circular economy initiatives. We surpassed our annual target, reaching 27.1 kg/adt of waste sent to landfills per metric ton of pulp produced. This result outperformed our target of 43.7 kg/adt set for the period.
A key initiative supporting this progress was the approval of new suppliers to repurpose industrial by-products into agricultural inputs, such as soil amendments and organic fertilizers. This helps reduce environmental impacts and supports local production chains through the responsible use of materials that were previously discarded.
At the Camaçari (BA) site, grits—industrial waste generated during the pulp production process—is being tested, under the oversight of the relevant environmental authority, for use as ground cover on service roads near forestry operations.
Starting in April 2024, in Lençóis Paulista (SP), wet biological sludge, previously sent to landfills, has been fully reused for organic fertilizer production through composting, eliminating its disposal. Primary sludge has also been used in the manufacturing of paper products, and calcitic waste has been fully redirected to agricultural soil amendments after audits confirmed compliance with legal and environmental requirements.
Learn more about our Waste Recovery Procedures under GRI 306-1 Waste generation and significant waste-related impacts.
Waste generation – Pulp segment
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Used or contaminated oil from engines, transmissions and lubrication | Hazardous waste | 158.17 |
| Oil-contaminated water from oil/water separators | Hazardous waste | 143.39 |
| Absorbents, filter materials, cleaning cloths, and protective clothing contaminated by hazardous substances | Hazardous waste | 240.92 |
| Fluorescent, sodium and mercury vapor, and mixed lamps | Hazardous waste | 0.23 |
| Batteries and accumulators | Hazardous waste | 18.91 |
| Healthcare-related containers and materials | Hazardous waste | 0.03 |
| Out-of-use electronic products and their components | Hazardous waste | 1.96 |
| Sludge from local effluent treatment | Nonhazardous waste | 69471.92 |
| Plastic packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 66.79 |
| Used or unusable tires for other applications | Nonhazardous waste | 277.85 |
| Wood debarking waste and wood waste | Nonhazardous waste | 68,205.57 |
| Iron and steel (Class B according to Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 1074.63 |
| Biodegradable kitchen and canteen waste | Nonhazardous waste | 403.04 |
| Other fractions not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 843.69 |
| Other recyclable waste (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 114.22 |
| Other waste not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 69,396.31 |
| Lime sludge waste | Nonhazardous waste | 58,721.41 |
| Fiberglass-based waste materials | Nonhazardous waste | 2.66 |
| Aluminum | Nonhazardous waste | 6.7 |
| Wood | Nonhazardous waste | 124.12 |
| Packaging of any of the types described above containing or contaminated with hazardous substance residues | Hazardous waste | 57.76 |
| Furnace and refractory linings from non-metalurgical processes not covered in 16 11 05 | Nonhazardous waste | 320.55 |
| Mixed packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 7.44 |
| Copper, bronze and brass | Nonhazardous waste | 36.77 |
| Mixed construction and demolition waste (Class A according to Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 95.63 |
| Total waste generated in pulp mill operations in São Paulo | 269,790.67 | |
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Petroleum products, solvents, and plastics | Hazardous waste | 41.97 |
| Rubber | Nonhazardous waste | 3.68 |
| Glass | Nonhazardous waste | 0.13 |
| Paper and cardboard | Nonhazardous waste | 1.8 |
| Plastics | Nonhazardous waste | 0.46 |
| Metals | Nonhazardous waste | 5.83 |
| Other inert materials | Nonhazardous waste | 7.89 |
| Total waste generated in São Paulo pulpwood operations | 61.76 | |
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Various contaminated materials | Hazardous waste | 32.17 |
| Empty contaminated metal drums | Hazardous waste | 3.24 |
| Healthcare waste | Hazardous waste | 0.02 |
| Used lubricants | Hazardous waste | 27.6 |
| Light bulbs | Hazardous waste | 0.29 |
| Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 3.21 |
| En-of-life tires | Nonhazardous waste | 1.80 |
| Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 8,940.30 |
| Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 3,736.74 |
| Lime residue | Nonhazardous waste | 1,482.40 |
| Lime mud | Nonhazardous waste | 28,959.14 |
| Knots and rejects | Nonhazardous waste | 15,410.86 |
| Primary sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 13,198.68 |
| Knots and rejects mixed with other waste | Nonhazardous waste | 543.22 |
| Sawdust | Nonhazardous waste | 26,103.20 |
| Scrapings (wood chip rejects) | Nonhazardous waste | 457 |
| Bark | Nonhazardous waste | 31,969.98 |
| Mechanized screen solids | Nonhazardous waste | 10.80 |
| Yard waste | Nonhazardous waste | 752.40 |
| Industrial waste | Nonhazardous waste | 4,610.50 |
| Non-recycled waste | Nonhazardous waste | 304.18 |
| Paper | Nonhazardous waste | 128.44 |
| Plastic | Nonhazardous waste | 44.07 |
| Scrap metal | Nonhazardous waste | 699.62 |
| Wood | Nonhazardous waste | 167.71 |
| Glass | Nonhazardous waste | 7.04 |
| Emergency pond sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 6,635.72 |
| Total waste generated in pulp mill operations in Bahia | 144,230.30 | |
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 27.46 |
| Oily sludge (separator box) | Hazardous waste | 1.00 |
| Used or contaminated lubricating oil | Hazardous waste | 24.45 |
| Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.18 |
| Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.02 |
| Tires | Nonhazardous waste | 29.58 |
| Big bags | Nonhazardous waste | 36.18 |
| Recyclables (paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic) | Nonhazardous waste | 38.01 |
| Scrap metal | Nonhazardous waste | 53.15 |
| Metal drums | Nonhazardous waste | 3.08 |
| Used PPE without contamination | Nonhazardous waste | 2.60 |
| Construction waste | Nonhazardous waste | 9.97 |
| General waste (non-recyclable) | Nonhazardous waste | 17.37 |
| Pesticide containers | Nonhazardous waste | 42.50 |
| Lightbulbs and electronic waste | Nonhazardous waste | 1.31 |
| Total waste generated in Bracell’s forestry operations in Bahia | 286.86 | |
Note 1: waste generated in Bracell’s mill operations in São Paulo includes forestry waste within the state, which is managed by the Industrial Environmental department. Forestry waste streams are not measured, but are fully disposed of in accordance with environmental requirements. Forestry waste generated outside São Paulo is handled by contractors in accordance with specific protocols, which are listed above.
Note 2: waste generated in Bracell’s mill operations in Bahia was calculated based on the total amount disposed of, as reported in Disposal Certificates (CDFs), plus the estimated weight of waste still stored in the Waste Storage Center (CAR) as of December 31, 2024. This process includes collection, identification, temporary storage or final disposal (Bracell’s industrial landfill), transportation, treatment, and disposal. All movements are recorded to track waste generation and disposal.
Waste generation versus waste disposal in pulp operations
Waste data is tracked via key performance indicators (KPIs), supporting our commitment to Bracell 2030 roadmap targets, which include a 90% reduction in Class II industrial waste sent to landfills, covering our São Paulo and Bahia pulp operations.
In 2024, Bracell’s total waste volume in pulp operations was 449,019.30 metric tons, with the largest share coming from the São Paulo mill, which accounted for 269,790.67 metric tons (65.16%). Our Bahia pulp mill operation contributed 144,230.30 metric tons (34.84%), while our forestry operations generated significantly smaller volumes, reflecting the specific nature of those operations.
The total volume of waste from pulp operations sent to landfills in 2024 was 98,961.37 metric tons. Of this amount, 84,836.39 metric tons (85.73%) were generated at our São Paulo operation, while 14,123.27 metric tons (14.27%) came from our Bahia operations.
Total waste generated and sent to landfills, by business unit and operation
| Operation | 2023 | 2024 | ||||
| Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | |
| Mill | 255,958.07 | 116,822.98 | 45.64% | 269,790.67 | 84,836.39 | 31.45% |
| Forestry | 5,672.30 | 492.05 | 8.67% | 61.76 | 1.71 | 2.77% |
| Total São Paulo | 261,630.37 | 117,315.03 | 44.84% | 269,852.43 | 84,838.09 | 31.44% |
| Operation | 2023 | 2024 | ||||
| Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | |
| Mill | 124,615.72 | 11,315.45 | 9.08% | 144,230.30 | 14,077.90 | 9.76% |
| Forestry | 259.63 | 91.39 | 35.20% | 286.86 | 45.37 | 15.82% |
| Total Bahia | 124,875.35 | 11,406.84 | 9.13% | 144,517.16 | 14,123.27 | 9.77% |
| Operation | 2023 | 2024 | ||||
| Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | Volume generated (t) | Sent to landfill (t) | Percent | |
| Mill | 380,573.79 | 128,138.43 | 33.67% | 414,020.97 | 98,914.31 | 23.89% |
| Forestry | 5,931.93 | 583.44 | 9.84% | 348.62 | 47.08 | 13.50% |
| Total Bracell | 386,505.72 | 128,721.87 | 33.30% | 414,369.59 | 98,961.37 | 23.88% |
Waste generation – Paper segment
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Packaging containing or contaminated by hazardous substances | Hazardous waste | 4.10 |
| Other recyclable waste (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 355.70 |
| Plastic packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 139.40 |
| Wood (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 151.50 |
| Total waste generated from industrial paper operations in the Southeast | 650.70 | |
| Classification | Category | Volume generated (t) |
| Rags, paint cans, and solvents | Hazardous waste | 2.13 |
| Electronic waste | Hazardous waste | 0.30 |
| Fluorescent, sodium and mercury vapor, and mixed lamps | Hazardous waste | 2.57 |
| Used or contaminated oil from engines, transmissions and lubrication | Hazardous waste | 1.22 |
| Lubricants | Hazardous waste | 9.345 |
| Cardboard cores | Nonhazardous waste | 132.36 |
| Cardboard | Nonhazardous waste | 78.12 |
| Rejects | Nonhazardous waste | 136.049 |
| Ferrous scrap | Nonhazardous waste | 124.62 |
| Ash | Nonhazardous waste | 61.63 |
| Plain film | Nonhazardous waste | 221.290 |
| Printed film | Nonhazardous waste | 54.032 |
| Towel scraps | Nonhazardous waste | 298.720 |
| Diaper wrapping | Nonhazardous waste | 2.580 |
| Pallets | Nonhazardous waste | 197.22 |
| Cellulose powder | Nonhazardous waste | 39.42 |
| Diaper strips | Nonhazardous waste | 230.372 |
| Nonwoven fabric scraps (TNT) | Nonhazardous waste | 14.260 |
| Water clarification sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 14,858.44 |
| Municipal waste | Nonhazardous waste | 964.00 |
| Total waste generated in paper manufacturing operations in the Northeast | 17,428.68 | |
GRI 306-4 Waste diverted from disposal
Waste management practices at Bracell follow circular economy principles and a hierarchical approach that prioritizes, first and foremost, reducing waste generation during production processes. Whenever possible, materials are reused internally, and when that is not feasible, we partner with third parties to recycle the waste, ensuring environmentally sound disposal. This approach supports our commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability across the entire value chain (see more under GRI 306-1 Waste generation and significant waste-related impacts).
The waste generated in our operations is handled responsibly, with a focus on recovery and landfill diversion whenever possible. Our disposal alternatives include recycling, energy recovery, reuse, composting, effluent treatment, and re-refining—a process that transforms used oil into a new, decontaminated product.
Starting in April 2024, wet biological sludge previously sent to landfills has been fully redirected to organic fertilizer production through composting. Primary sludge has also been used in the manufacturing of paper products, and calcitic waste has been fully redirected to agricultural soil amendments after audits confirmed compliance with legal and environmental requirements.
These initiatives, along with the approval of new suppliers to reuse waste in the production of agricultural inputs, led to a reduction in the volume of waste sent to landfills in our São Paulo operation. This progress supports our circular economy initiatives and the environmental goals set out in our Bracell 2030 roadmap.
Pulp waste diverted from disposal
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Used or contaminated oil from engines, transmissions and lubrication | Hazardous waste | 158.17 | Re-refining |
| Packaging of any of the types described above containing or contaminated with hazardous substance residues | Hazardous waste | 57.76 | Recycling |
| Batteries and accumulators | Hazardous waste | 18.91 | Recycling |
| Oil-contaminated water from oil/water separators | Hazardous waste | 143.39 | Effluent treatment |
| Absorbents, filter materials, cleaning cloths, and protective clothing contaminated by hazardous substances | Hazardous waste | 240.92 | Co-processing |
| Out-of-use electronic products and their components | Hazardous waste | 1.96 | Recycling |
| Plastic packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 66.79 | Recycling |
| Used or unusable tires for other applications | Nonhazardous waste | 81.65 | Co-processing |
| Used or unusable tires for other applications | Nonhazardous waste | 196.2 | Recycling |
| Iron and steel (Class B according to Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 1074.63 | Recycling |
| Biodegradable kitchen and canteen waste | Nonhazardous waste | 403.04 | Composting |
| Other fractions not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 653.96 | Recycling |
| Other recyclable waste (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 114.22 | Recycling |
| Sludge from local effluent treatment | Nonhazardous waste | 54,452.21 | Composting |
| Fluorescent, sodium and mercury vapor, and mixed lamps | Hazardous waste | 0.23 | Sorting with storage |
| Furnace and refractory linings from non-metallurgical processes not covered in 16 11 05 | Nonhazardous waste | 320.55 | Recycling |
| Wood debarking waste and wood waste | Nonhazardous waste | 67,973.98 | Energy recovery |
| Lime sludge waste | Nonhazardous waste | 58,721.41 | Agricultural use |
| Wood | Nonhazardous waste | 124.12 | Recycling |
| Aluminum | Nonhazardous waste | 6.70 | Recycling |
| Copper, bronze and brass | Nonhazardous waste | 36.77 | Recycling |
| Other waste not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 99.24 | Recycling |
| Mixed packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 7.44 | Recycling |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our São Paulo mill operations | 184,954.25 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Petroleum products, solvents, and plastics | Hazardous waste | 0.71 | Recycling |
| Metals | Nonhazardous waste | 5.83 | Recycling |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our São Paulo forestry operations | 6.54 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Used or contaminated lubricating oil | Hazardous waste | 26.32 | Re-refining |
| Lime mud | Nonhazardous waste | 4,934.93 | Preparation for reuse |
| Screening reject | Nonhazardous waste | 7,807.67 | Preparation for reuse |
| Primary sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 2,300.60 | Preparation for reuse |
| Sawdust | Nonhazardous waste | 28,633.58 | Preparation for reuse |
| Clean bark | Nonhazardous waste | 21,255.92 | Preparation for reuse |
| Paper | Nonhazardous waste | 139.86 | Recycling |
| Plastic | Nonhazardous waste | 51.98 | Recycling |
| Iron | Nonhazardous waste | 678.70 | Recycling |
| Metal | Nonhazardous waste | 21.03 | Recycling |
| Wood | Nonhazardous waste | 167.71 | Recycling |
| Glass | Nonhazardous waste | 6.15 | Recycling |
| Empty metal drums | Nonhazardous waste | 1.32 | Recycling |
| Fibrous organic waste | Nonhazardous waste | 543.22 | Preparation for reuse |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our São Paulo mill operations | 66,568.99 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Oily sludge (separator box) | Hazardous waste | 1.00 | Preparation for reuse |
| Used or contaminated lubricating oil | Hazardous waste | 22.11 | Preparation for reuse |
| Tires | Nonhazardous waste | 25.13 | Preparation for reuse |
| Big bags | Nonhazardous waste | 36.18 | Recycling |
| Recyclables (paper, cardboard, glass, and plastic) | Nonhazardous waste | 38.01 | Recycling |
| Scrap metal | Nonhazardous waste | 50.81 | Recycling |
| Metal drums | Nonhazardous waste | 42.50 | Recycling |
| Pesticide containers | Nonhazardous waste | 42.50 | Reverse logistics |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our Bahia forestry operations | 258.24 | – | |
Note: the waste volumes reported by Bracell’s forestry and mill operations in Bahia are the amounts disposed of during 2024, regardless of when they were generated. This may result in differences between the reported waste generation and waste disposal figures any given year.
Paper waste diverted from disposal
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Other recyclable waste (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 355.70 | Recycling |
| Plastic packaging | Nonhazardous waste | 139.40 | Recycling |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our Southeast paper operations | 495.10 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Rehabilitation |
| Electronic waste | Hazardous waste | 0.30 | Recycling |
| Used or contaminated oil from engines, transmissions and lubrication | Hazardous waste | 1.22 | Re-refining |
| Lubricants | Hazardous waste | 9.345 | Re-refining |
| Cardboard cores | Nonhazardous waste | 132.36 | Recycling |
| Cardboard | Nonhazardous waste | 78.12 | Recycling |
| Rejects | Nonhazardous waste | 136.049 | Recycling |
| Ferrous scrap | Nonhazardous waste | 124.62 | Recycling |
| Ash | Nonhazardous waste | 61.63 | Recycling |
| Plain film | Nonhazardous waste | 221.290 | Recycling |
| Printed film | Nonhazardous waste | 54.032 | Recycling |
| Towel scraps | Nonhazardous waste | 298.720 | Recycling |
| Diaper wrapping | Nonhazardous waste | 2.580 | Recycling |
| Pallets | Nonhazardous waste | 197.20 | Recycling |
| Cellulose powder | Nonhazardous waste | 39.420 | Recycling |
| Diaper strips | Nonhazardous waste | 230.372 | Recycling |
| Nonwoven fabric scraps (TNT) | Nonhazardous waste | 14.260 | Recycling |
| Total waste diverted from disposal in our Northeast paper manufacturing operations | 1601.518 | – | |
GRI 306-5 Waste directed to disposal
At Bracell’s forestry and mill operations, some of the waste generated still requires disposal, such as landfilling, co-processing, incineration, and autoclaving. These include effluent treatment sludge, wood debarking waste, end-of-life truck and bus tires, rubber, glass, and contaminated materials.
In 2024, Bracell achieved a significant reduction in the volume of industrial waste sent to landfills, driven by the expansion of circular economy initiatives. A key initiative supporting this progress was the approval of new suppliers to repurpose industrial by-products into agricultural inputs, such as soil amendments and organic fertilizers. This strategy not only mitigates environmental impacts but also strengthens local value chains by turning otherwise disposable materials into productive resources.
At the Camaçari (BA) site, grits—industrial waste generated during the pulp production process—is being tested, under the oversight of the relevant environmental authority, for use as ground cover on service roads near forestry operations.
In Lençóis Paulista (SP), wet biological sludge previously sent to landfills has been fully redirected to organic fertilizer production through composting.
Primary sludge has been used in the manufacturing of paper products, and calcitic waste has been redirected to agricultural soil amendments after audits confirmed compliance with legal and environmental requirements.
These initiatives are part of Bracell’s ongoing efforts to drive sustainable waste management solutions and directly support the environmental targets set out in the Bracell 2030 roadmap.
Pulp waste sent for final disposal
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Sludge from local effluent treatment | Nonhazardous waste | 15,019.71 | Landfill |
| Other waste not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 69,297.07 | Landfill |
| Other fractions not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 189.73 | Landfill |
| Fiberglass-based waste materials | Nonhazardous waste | 2.66 | Landfill |
| Containers and materials from healthcare processes that do not contain blood or body fluids in free form | Hazardous waste | 0.03 | Autoclave |
| Wood debarking waste and wood waste | Nonhazardous waste | 231.59 | Landfill |
| Mixed construction and demolition waste | Nonhazardous waste | 95.63 | Landfill |
| Total waste sent for disposal in our São Paulo mill operations | 84,836.39 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Petroleum products, solvents, and plastics | Hazardous waste | 1.71 | Landfill |
| Petroleum products, solvents, and plastics | Hazardous waste | 39.55 | Co-processing |
| Rubber | Nonhazardous waste | 3.68 | Incineration (without energy recovery) |
| Plastics | Nonhazardous waste | 0.46 | Incineration (without energy recovery) |
| Glass | Nonhazardous waste | 0.13 | Co-processing |
| Paper and cardboard | Nonhazardous waste | 1.80 | Co-processing |
| Other inert materials | Nonhazardous waste | 7.89 | Co-processing |
| Total waste sent for final disposal in our São Paulo forestry operations | 55.22 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Contaminated PPE | Hazardous waste | 4.32 | Co-processing |
| Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 21.60 | Landfill |
| Class I waste contaminated with paint and solvent | Hazardous waste | 4.31 | Landfill |
| Containers contaminated with paint or solvents | Hazardous waste | 4.60 | Landfill |
| Healthcare waste | Hazardous waste | 0.02 | Autoclave |
| Light bulbs | Hazardous waste | 0.39 | Landfill |
| Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 8,940.30 | Landfill |
| Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 3,375.12 | Landfill |
| Yard waste | Nonhazardous waste | 752.4 | Landfill |
| Industrial waste (cleaning) | Nonhazardous waste | 1,124.00 | Landfill |
| Mechanized screen box | Nonhazardous waste | 8.10 | Landfill |
| Non-recyclable waste | Nonhazardous waste | 304.18 | Landfill |
| Total waste sent for final disposal in our Bahia operations | 14,539.34 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 2.62 | Co-processing |
| Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 15.94 | Landfill |
| Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.18 | Landfill |
| Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.02 | Landfill |
| Used PPE without contamination | Nonhazardous waste | 1.22 | Landfill |
| Construction waste | Nonhazardous waste | 9.97 | Landfill |
| General waste (non-recyclable) | Nonhazardous waste | 17.37 | Landfill |
| Lightbulbs and electronic waste | Nonhazardous waste | 0.67 | Landfill |
| Total waste sent for disposal in our Bahia forestry operations | 47.99 | – | |
Paper waste sent for disposal
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Packaging containing or contaminated by hazardous substances | Hazardous waste | 4.10 | Co-processing |
| Wood (Class B under Conama Resolution No. 307/02) | Nonhazardous waste | 151.50 | Incineration (with energy recovery) |
| Total waste send for disposal in our Southeast paper operations | 155.60 | – | |
| Classification | Category | Method of disposal (t) | Disposal Method |
| Fluorescent, sodium and mercury vapor, and mixed lamps | Hazardous waste | 2.57 | Co-processing |
| Rags, paint cans, and solvents | Hazardous waste | 2.13 | Incineration (with energy recovery) |
| Water clarification sludge | Non-hazardous waste | 14,858.44 | Landfill |
| Municipal waste | Non-hazardous waste | 964.00 | Landfill |
| Total waste send for disposal in our Northeast paper operations | 15,827.14 | – | |
Waste sent to landfill from 2020 to 2024
| Year | Total waste sent to landfills (kg) | Waste sent to landfills per metric ton of pulp produced (kg/ADT) |
| 2020 | 12,835,672 | 52.1 |
| 2021 | 53,088,992 | 65.0 |
| 2022 | 237,543,980 | 80.9 |
| 2023 | 255,960,241 | 85.0 |
| 2024 | 84,836.42 | 44.3 |
| Year | Waste | Category | Landfill (t) | Business unit | Operation |
| 2024 | Sludge from local effluent treatment | Nonhazardous waste | 15,019.71 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Other fractions not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 189.73 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Fiberglass-based waste materials | Nonhazardous waste | 2.66 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Mixed construction and demolition waste | Nonhazardous waste | 95.63 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Wood debarking waste and wood waste | Nonhazardous waste | 231.59 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Other waste not specified earlier | Nonhazardous waste | 69,297.07 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2024 | Petroleum products, solvents, and plastics | Hazardous waste | 1.71 | São Paulo | Forestry |
| 2024 | Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 21.60 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Class I waste contaminated with paint and solvent | Hazardous waste | 4.31 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Containers contaminated with paint or solvents | Hazardous waste | 4.60 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Light bulbs | Hazardous waste | 0.39 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 8,940.30 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 3,375.12 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Yard sand | Nonhazardous waste | 319 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Industrial cleaning | Nonhazardous waste | 1,124.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Mechanized screen box | Nonhazardous waste | 8.10 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Non-recycled waste | Nonhazardous waste | 304.18 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2024 | Oily sludge, oily water, miscellaneous waste materials contaminated with oils and greases | Hazardous waste | 15.94 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2024 | Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.18 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2024 | Laboratory waste | Hazardous waste | 0.02 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2024 | Used PPE without contamination | Nonhazardous waste | 1.22 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2024 | Construction waste | Nonhazardous waste | 9.97 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2024 | General waste (non-recyclable) | Nonhazardous waste | 17.37 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Lightbulbs and electronic waste | Nonhazardous waste | 0.67 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | General non-hazardous/unsalvageable waste (Class II) | Nonhazardous waste | 135.83 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2023 | Sludge (wastewater treatment) | Nonhazardous waste | 33,873.74 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2023 | Mixed waste (dregs, grits, knots, shives, ash and sand) | Nonhazardous waste | 82,813.41 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2023 | Organic waste | Nonhazardous waste | 492.05 | São Paulo | Forestry |
| 2023 | Healthcare waste | Class I | 0.02 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Various materials contaminated with oil and grease | Class I | 18.05 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Light bulbs | Class I | 0.29 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 1,831.56 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 7,515.87 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Non-recyclable waste | Nonhazardous waste | 287.18 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Yard waste | Nonhazardous waste | 664.40 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Industrial waste | Nonhazardous waste | 988.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Screening system solids | Nonhazardous waste | 10.08 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Healthcare waste | Class I | 0.12 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2023 | Contaminated filters | Class I | 4.60 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Contaminated hoses | Class I | 8.08 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Other contaminated materials | Class I | 4.64 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | General waste | Nonhazardous waste | 14.76 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Contaminated soil | Class I | 2.41 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | PPE and used uniforms | Nonhazardous waste | 2.58 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Construction waste | Nonhazardous waste | 53.60 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2023 | Batteries | Nonhazardous waste | 0.05 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2022 | Healthcare waste | Class I | 0.12 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Various materials contaminated with oil and grease | Class I | 18.40 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Light bulbs | Class I | 1.60 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 4,185.02 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 8,150.74 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Knots and shives | Nonhazardous waste | 325.78 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Bark | Nonhazardous waste | 157.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Yard waste | Nonhazardous waste | 673.01 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Industrial waste | Nonhazardous waste | 3,731.91 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Primary sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 13,013.91 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Plastic carboys | Nonhazardous waste | 0.13 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Scrap metal | Nonhazardous waste | 245.74 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Laboratory waste | Nonhazardous waste | 2.85 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2022 | Other contaminated materials | Class I | 9.60 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2022 | Bags | Nonhazardous waste | 9.36 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2022 | General non-hazardous/unsalvageable waste (Class II) | Nonhazardous waste | 9.67 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2022 | Fiberglass and mineral wool | Nonhazardous waste | 107.50 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2022 | Sludge (wastewater treatment) | Nonhazardous waste | 164,455.78 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2022 | Mixed waste (dregs, grits, knots, shives, ash and sand) | Nonhazardous waste | 25,002.84 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2021 | Healthcare waste | Class I | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Light bulbs | Class I | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Grits | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Dregs | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Knots and shives | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Non-recyclable waste | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Bark | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Yard waste | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Industrial waste | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Screening system solids | Nonhazardous waste | 0.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2021 | Contaminated filters | Class I | 8.20 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2021 | Contaminated hoses | Class I | 2.87 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2021 | Other contaminated materials | Class I | 10.71 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2021 | Electronic waste | Class I | 0.43 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2021 | Wood | Nonhazardous waste | 0.67 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2021 | Construction waste containing asbestos | Class I | 12.58 | São Paulo | Forestry |
| 2021 | Lime mud | Nonhazardous waste | 19,682.64 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2021 | Wastewater treatment plant sludge | Nonhazardous waste | 21,429.05 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2021 | Restaurant waste (organic) | Nonhazardous waste | 6.78 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2021 | Fiberglass-based waste materials | Nonhazardous waste | 112.27 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2020 | Grits, dregs and sludge from the recovery process | Nonhazardous waste | 25,205.00 | Bahia | Mill |
| 2020 | General waste | Nonhazardous waste | 10.80 | Bahia | Forestry |
| 2020 | Restaurant waste (organic) | Nonhazardous waste | 13.24 | São Paulo | Mill |
| 2020 | Mineral wool and fiberglass | Nonhazardous waste | 13.09 | São Paulo | Mill |