Water is vital to human well-being, the conservation of natural ecosystems and biodiversity, and to Bracell’s operations. We are committed to preserving water resources by protecting springs and riparian vegetation in our areas of operation. Looking ahead, we have set a target to reduce water consumption per metric ton of product by 47% by 2030. This commitment underscores the importance we attach to water stewardship in our operations.

Our water stewardship practices are aimed at minimizing water use in pulp manufacturing, preserving water resources and watersheds, improving operational water efficiency, mitigating water availability risks and impacts, and optimizing effluent management practices.

We monitor and control water withdrawal, discharge, and consumption across both our mill and forestry operations. Our Integrated Management System comprises corporate policies, standard operating procedures, and risk, aspect and impact matrixes. These policies and procedures comply with the requirements of ISO 14001, ISO 9001, Forestry Certification Endorsement Program (PEFC) certification requirements, applicable Brazilian legislation, regulatory standards and international sustainability management protocols.

The Environmental and Certification teams in our forestry and mill operations manage our Integrated Management System. These teams report annually to senior management on continuous improvement in environmental performance and certification compliance.

As part of Bracell 2030, our sustainability roadmap, we have set a target for improving water efficiency in our mill processes. By 2030, we aim to achieve a 47% reduction in water intensity per metric ton of pulp produced, reaching 16.6 m³/adt. In 2024, our water intensity stood at 19.2 m³/adt, in line with our target for the year.

In our forestry operations, eucalyptus planting is informed by a climate zoning study conducted by our Forest R&D team. This study analyzes historical climate data such as precipitation, temperature, and latitude. Based on collected data, land with greater water availability may be recommended (read more about our management approach in Climate Action).

We are actively engaged in reducing the use of harmful chemicals and inorganic fertilizers in our forestry operations, which can contaminate soil and water resources. In line with international conventions, including the Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions, we are phasing out sulfluramid and exploring safer alternatives for managing leaf-cutting ants. Our teams participate in collaborative research programs and conduct in-house testing to identify safer substitutes.

To further reduce synthetic fertilizer use, Bracell is exploring the application of organomineral fertilizers produced from organic waste generated by our own facilities. A composting plant feasibility study is currently underway. We have also begun producing potassium sulfate from an effluent stream in our pulp production process, reducing our reliance on imported potassium chloride.

List of chemicals used

Category	Active ingredient
Fungicide	Azoxystrobin + Difenoconazole
Fungicide	Mancozeb + Azoxystrobin
Fungicide	Metconazole
Fungicide	Pyraclostrobin
Fungicide	Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin
Herbicide	Flumioxazin
Herbicide	Fluroxypyr + Triclopyr
Herbicide	Glyphosate
Herbicide	Haloxyfop
Herbicide	Haloxyfop + Clethodim
Herbicide	Indaziflam
Herbicide	Isoxaflutole
Herbicide	Oxyfluorfen
Herbicide	Saflufenacil
Herbicide	Sulfentrazone
Herbicide	Triclopyr
Insecticide	Acetamiprid + Bifenthrin
Insecticide	Alpha-cypermethrin
Insecticide	Bifenthrin
Insecticide	Deltamethrin
Insecticide	Fipronil
Insecticide	Imidacloprid
Insecticide	Isocycloseram
Insecticide	Sulfluramid
Insecticide	Thiamethoxam

Water withdrawal management

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), water is withdrawn from 11 groundwater wells located near the plant within the Recôncavo Norte Watershed. These withdrawals are made under a permit from the Bahia State Environmental Agency (Inema). We also withdraw groundwater at our Bracell Papéis plant in the Northeast, in Feira de Santana (BA), via 14 deep cased wells operating under a permit issued by Inema. The wells are continuously monitored for flow rate, water table levels, and Hydro accordance with regulations.

At our Lençóis Paulista (São Paulo) site, water is sourced from six deep cased wells and surface water drawn from the Tietê River, at an intake 22 km from the mill. The site also has a system to collect rainwater. We additionally operate groundwater withdrawal systems at two nurseries in São Paulo: one in Lençóis Paulista and another in Avaí.

Our forestry operations, which supply raw material to both the Camaçari and Lençóis Paulista mills, similarly withdraw both surface and groundwater. Across all operations, our water withdrawal points are distributed as follows: 37 in Bahia, 251 in São Paulo, 14 in Minas Gerais, and 2 in Paraná. All withdrawals are made under permits issued by the respective environmental authorities. Withdrawal points are periodically monitored in accordance with license requirements (learn more under GRI 303-3 Water withdrawal).

In Bahia, we withdraw surface water from six major rivers: Pojuca, Subaúma, Itariri, Inhambupe, Sauípe and Imbassaí. In São Paulo, withdrawals are made from nine designated Water Resource Management Units (UGRHIs): Aguapeí, Peixe, Upper Paranapanema, Middle Paranapanema, Pontal do Paranapanema, Tietê Batalha, Tietê Jacaré, Tietê Sorocaba, and Piracicaba/Capivari/Jundiaí. In Minas Gerais, our water sources include Ribeirão da Onça, Ribeirão Jacurutu and its tributaries, Rio do Peixe, Córrego Sobrado, and Rio Jequitaí. In Paraná, water is withdrawn from Ribeirão Jundiaí.

We evaluate potential impacts on water resources using an impact matrix that accounts for the scale and intensity of forestry activities. Based on this analysis, we implement preventive and mitigation measures as needed. Regular water quality assessments are conducted to evaluate the effects of our forestry operations. As of 2024, the results indicate no adverse impacts.

Water Resources Monitoring Program

Our Water Resource Monitoring Plan tracks withdrawal volumes to ensure compliance with permit requirements and licensing covenants issued by environmental authorities.

Water management in the Camaçari Industrial Park is overseen by an independent firm that monitors both water availability and quality. The park’s Water Resources Management Plan includes risk assessments and action plans for 100% of tenants (read more about effluent management under GRI 303-4 Water discharge).

Bracell protects natural watercourses with vegetated buffer zones. We use official data from the Rural Environmental Register (CAR) to georeference information about the farms we manage. In our geographic information system, we intersect this data with other data sets, such as those compiled in our protected areas and buffer zones. This informs our operational procedures on each property, depending on the constraints and conditions set in management plans (read more in Sustainable Landscapes and Biodiversity).

Consumption management

Our facilities use partially closed-loop water systems that support water recycling throughout the production process, minimizing freshwater withdrawals.

At our new Tissue facility in Lençóis Paulista (SP), water used in manufacturing is extracted directly from the pulp, purified within the process, and then reused. This reduces water intake and enhances overall water efficiency.

At Bracell Papéis Nordeste, in Feira de Santana (BA), wastewater is recovered after treatment and returned to the process, further reducing fresh water consumption. This facility is designed as a fully closed loop, with 100% of process water recycled. (read more about the sustainability attributes of our operations in GRI 2-6 About Bracell)

In our nurseries, water is primarily used for seedling irrigation. At our nursery located in Bahia, we also maintain eucalyptus plantation areas. Excess irrigation water is directed to drainage systems, infiltrating the soil in the eucalyptus stands. In our forestry operations, water serves various purposes, including seedling watering, preparation of chemical treatment mixtures, firefighting, dust suppression and maintenance of service roads, and equipment cleaning.

In Bahia, Bracell collaborates with public agencies and local communities to help ensure water availability. Monitoring is conducted by an independent firm based in the Camaçari industrial park, which identifies potential risks and implements corrective action (see GRI 303-2 Management of water discharge related impacts for additional information).

To ensure responsible and compliant water consumption we conduct regular environmental monitoring across our forestry and mill sites in São Paulo and Bahia. This monitoring is performed by laboratories accredited under NBR ISO/IEC 17025 and includes assessments of both groundwater and surface water quality, as well as potability testing for human consumption, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.

Effluent management and discharge

Our pulp production facilities are certified to ISO 14001:2015, which ensures water consumption and discharge points are systematically managed and controlled within an internal environmental management system, including consumption limits and strategies for reuse and reduction.

We are the first company in the pulp industry in São Paulo to implement three-stage effluent treatment:

1. Primary treatment: mechanical removal of fibers and inorganic compounds through solid-liquid separation
2. Secondary treatment: biological treatment of organic matter using activated sludge systems to significantly reduce organic load
3. Tertiary treatment: final polishing of the treated effluent through a chemical flotation system, ensuring it meets appropriate quality standards before it is returned to the Tietê River.

Tertiary effluent treatment supports high-performance removal of organic load—as measured by Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)—at approximately 98% efficiency, far exceeding federal regulatory requirements (Conama Resolution 430/2011). In addition, approximately 92% of water withdrawals are returned to the Tietê River as treated effluent.

Effluent discharge limits are set in accordance with Brazilian environmental laws and standards, including Article 18 of Decree No. 8.468/1976, Article 16 of CONAMA Resolution 430/2011, the state environmental regulator’s (CETESB) Technical Reference Document, Technical Opinion 072/18/IPSE, and international eco-label standards such as Nordic Swan and the EU Ecolabel (see GRI 2-6 About Bracell for further details).

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), process water is collected post-use and pumped to Bracell’s on-site primary treatment system, which includes a sedimentation step. The organic effluent is then sent to the local utility, which performs secondary biological treatment (activated sludge), ensuring more than 95% removal of organic load. The treated effluent is then discharged into the Atlantic Ocean through a submarine outfall, in compliance with CONAMA Resolution 430/2011 and the guidelines of the Bahia state environmental authority (INEMA).

We consistently maintain quality standards that surpass national regulatory requirements, with especially rigorous monitoring of parameters like BOD and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD).

At our operations in São Paulo, BOD levels are approximately 98% above the threshold required by federal regulations (Conama Resolution No. 430/2011), reflecting the efficiency of our exclusive tertiary treatment system.

In our Bahia operations, continuous COD monitoring ensures the primary treatment system is performing optimally. The secondary treatment stage effectively reduces organic load, though due to mixing with effluents from other industrial operators within the complex, it is not possible to measure Bracell’s isolated contribution to the final effluent discharged offshore.

River Basin Committees

We are active members of watershed committees the regions where we operate, where we discuss ways to use water resources more sustainably. We are members of the following committees and programs:

• North Recôncavo and Inhambupe Watershed Committee (Bahia);
• Paranapanema Watershed Committee (CGBH-RL);
• São Paulo State Watershed Modeling and Monitoring Program (PROMAB), run by the Forest Research Institute (IPEF);
• PROMAB, a 25-year monitoring program in Bahia.

We also implement initiatives in partnership with stakeholders, especially local communities and suppliers, to preserve and restore headwater areas and improve water resource efficiency.

Bracell operates mills in the Camaçari Industrial Park (BA) and in the Lençóis Paulista Industrial Park (SP) and in Feira de Santana (BA), as well as integrated forestry operations—from planting to harvesting—across the states of Bahia, São Paulo, and Sergipe. We monitor freshwater withdrawal volumes, risks, and potential impacts on water resources in full compliance with our environmental licenses, applicable laws, and certification standards within Bracell’s Integrated Management System.

At the São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) sites, there are no water withdrawals as these facilities use dry processing.

We use a structured management approach covering all stages—withdrawal, consumption, and discharge—to ensure both environmental compliance and water efficiency.

Water withdrawal sources:

• Licensed surface and groundwater sources
• Treated wastewater
• Utility

Water uses:

• Drinking water
• Toilet flushing
• Industrial cooling
• Laboratories and research
• Cleaning and maintenance of facilities and equipment
• Fire suppression systems
• Cafeterias and kitchens
• Product processing water (as an ingredient or as part of the production of a product)
• Grounds irrigation and watering
• Seedling irrigation and forest planting

Water disposal methods:

• Discharge into lakes and rivers (authorized and treated)
• Reuse
• Wastewater treatment plants
• Other methods:
  • Forestry area in Bahia: bases in Alagoinhas, Inhambupe, and Entre Rios use septic tanks; the Alagoinhas base also includes an oil-water separator and conducts lab testing of effluents. Waste is collected and treated by licensed providers.
  • Bahia mill: post-process water is collected and treated internally, then sent to the local utility for secondary treatment prior to discharge via ocean outfall.

Environmental impact identification:

Potential water-related impacts include:

• Excessive water consumption
• Water pollution
• Soil erosion and sedimentation
• Greenhouse gas emissions

Approaches to identifying impacts:

• Environmental impact assessments
• Compliance assessments
• Water risk assessments

Scope of impact assessments:

Water consumption in operations

Effluent discharge

Water quality

Compliance

Efficiency and innovation to reduce consumption

Timing of impact assessments:

• Medium-term sustainability programs
• Continuous monitoring
• Baseline assessments to identify risks and impacts

Assessment tools and methodologies:

• Industry benchmarking.
• Environmental performance indicators
• Systems: Softexpert and SOGI
• Identification and assessment of environmental aspects and impacts
• LAIA spreadsheet for documentation and control

Impact management:

We implement measures to mitigate impacts and manage water as a shared resource:

• Water intensity reduction: maintenance and consumption monitoring
• Erosion and siltation: road construction and maintenance according to each business unit’s procedures
• Water availability: forestry planning to minimize water consumption in Bahia; water consumption reduction targets in nurseries.

Water-related goals and targets

• Aligned with public policy frameworks and UN SDG 6
• Reflect public policies and the local context
• Supported by stakeholder engagement, including civil society, trade associations etc.
• Based on sustainable limits and basin-level planning
• Established annually and validated by Bracell’s internal environmental assurance committee.

Suppliers assessed on social and environmental aspects are those operating directly on Bracell’s premises. We do not assess the management of sustainability topics across our broader supplier chain. No water-related impacts caused by suppliers have been reported or identified in Bracell’s operations.

(Read more about our water and effluent management practices under GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Water and effluents)

Our pulp production facilities are certified to ISO 14001:2015, which ensures water consumption and discharge points are systematically managed and controlled within an internal environmental management system, including consumption limits and strategies for reuse and reduction. Effluents are monitored for compliance with the discharge standards issued by the Brazilian Environmental Council (Conama 430/2011), State Decree no. 8,468/1976 and other environmental regulators.

In our water and effluent management practices, Bracell actively monitors potential environmental risks, including the contamination of surface water bodies and surrounding ecosystems due to effluent discharge. We also track actual risks, such as water stress in already vulnerable regions, which could negatively impact aquatic ecosystems and water supply for local communities. These risks are classified as having a broad geographic scope and high intensity. Bracell has internal controls in place to prevent and mitigate such risks.

None of our operations are located in areas where water discharge is legally exempt from regulation.

Effluent management in the production of kraft and dissolving pulp

To ensure compliance with certification requirements, in our São Paulo operations we have classified recipient water bodies to ensure water discharges are within specifications under our discharge permits from the Department of Water and Electrical Energy (DAEE).

We are the first company in the pulp industry in São Paulo to implement three-stage effluent treatment:

1. Primary treatment: mechanical removal of fibers and inorganic compounds through solid-liquid separation

2. Secondary treatment: biological treatment of organic matter using activated sludge systems to significantly reduce organic load

3. Tertiary treatment: an advanced filtration or “polishing” stage to ensure effluent quality prior to discharge into the Tietê River

Tertiary effluent treatment supports high-performance removal of organic load—as measured by Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)—at approximately 98% efficiency, far exceeding federal regulatory requirements (Conama Resolution 430/2011). In addition, approximately 92% of water withdrawals are returned to the Tietê River as treated effluent.

Effluent discharge limits are set in accordance with Brazilian environmental laws and standards, including Article 18 of Decree No. 8.468/1976, Article 16 of CONAMA Resolution 430/2011, the state environmental regulator’s (CETESB) Technical Reference Document, Technical Opinion 072/18/IPSE, and international eco-label standards such as Nordic Swan and the EU Ecolabel (see GRI 2-6 About Bracell for further details).

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), process water is collected post-use and pumped to Bracell’s on-site primary treatment system, which includes a sedimentation step. The organic effluent is then sent to the local utility, which performs secondary biological treatment (activated sludge), ensuring more than 95% removal of organic load. The treated effluent is then discharged into the ocean via a dedicated outfall pipeline, in compliance with Inema Ordinance No. 16.507/2018 and No 18.841/19, Conama Resolution No. 430/2011, and other regulations issued by the relevant environmental agencies.

Effluent Management in Tissue Production (Lençóis Paulista site)

At our tissue production facility in Lençóis Paulista (São Paulo), all wastewater from paper and pulp operations is treated through a single, centralized Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP). Effluent from the Bracell Papéis industrial process, along with discharges from the site’s two pulp production lines, is directed to this centralized treatment system.

Effluent management in soluble and specialty pulp production (Camaçari)

At our Camaçari facility in Bahia, we ensure our effluent management practices are compliant through routine monitoring of physical, chemical, and biological parameters including Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). This parameter is used both to measure organic load and as a financial performance indicator of operational efficiency. This indicator is used to evaluate the performance of our wastewater treatment system, which comprises an on-site treatment plant at our Camaçari mill (settling or primary treatment) and another treatment plant operated by Cetrel, a company c0-located in the Camaçari Industrial Park that is responsible for secondary treatment (activated sludge) of Bracell’s effluents.

Continuous COD monitoring ensures the primary treatment system is performing optimally. The secondary treatment stage effectively reduces organic load, though due to mixing with effluents from other industrial operators within the complex, it is not possible to measure Bracell’s isolated contribution to the final effluent discharged offshore.

Continuous monitoring of our industrial wastewater ensures our dissolving pulp production process is eco-efficient. We also use indirect methods to measure the quality of our chemical recovery system, loss of fibers from the mill process, and solid retention efficiency in the on-site primary treatment system.

Our wastewater treatment system processes two primary wastewater streams:

• Organic effluents: wastewater from the mill and stormwater system containing varying amounts of byproducts from the production process. This accounts for the bulk of the effluents generated at the mill. Organic effluents are pumped to the on-site primary treatment system and then to the Cetrel-operated secondary treatment system;

• Inorganic effluents (SI): also referred to as non-contaminated wastewater, this stream is generated by the site’s stormwater system and other non-contaminated sources, such as flush water from cooling towers and heat exchangers.

Both streams are monitored in accordance with Inema Ordinances 16.507/2018 and 18.841/19. The specifications for water discharges depend on the recipient water body as outlined in the relevant federal regulations (Conama Resolution 430/2011) and requirements issued by the state environmental authority, Inema.

Effluents are collected and pumped to a wastewater treatment system comprising a preliminary treatment stage (screening and pH adjustment) and primary treatment (conventional settling and sludge removal). This process mechanically removes settable solids—essentially cellulose fibers extracted in the form of primary sludge. Following on-site treatment, the organic effluent is pumped to the Cetrel plant. Following secondary treatment, the treated effluent is discharged into the ocean via a submarine outfall.

Effluents from seedling nurseries are monitored in order to avoid alterations in soil quality. Wastewater from the washing station at our workshop in Alagoinhas (BA) is monitored to avoid alterations in effluent quality.

Effluent Management in paper production (Pombos-PE, Feira de Santana-BA, and São Gonçalo dos Campos-BA)

The effluent management systems at our Feira de Santana (BA), São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA), and Pombos (PE) mills have been designed to ensure maximum environmental efficiency and full compliance with current legislation. Each site has a different operational profile, requiring slight-specific solutions for managing the wastewater produced.

At the Feira de Santana (BA) site, where jumbo rolls are produced, the industrial process was developed as a closed-loop system, with no discharge of industrial effluents into the environment. Effluent is treated in an on-site Wastewater Treatment Plant that removes impurities to enable water reuse, reduce environmental impact, and optimize water resource efficiency.

• Preliminary treatment: the water passes through an aerated pond, which stabilizes temperature, pH, and flow rate while ensuring adequate oxygenation before the effluent enters the main treatment system

• Primary treatment: in the primary clarifier, heavier solids settle out, and the resulting primary sludge is sent for thickening and centrifugation

• Secondary treatment: the effluent flows to the equalization stage, which maintains flow and oxygen levels. It then moves to aeration, where aerobic bacteria break down dissolved organic matter. Next, the secondary clarifier separates the activated sludge. A portion of the sludge is returned to the aeration stage, while excess sludge is removed as necessary. The extracted sludge undergoes thickening and centrifugation. The dewatered solid fraction is sent to a licensed sanitary landfill, and the separated water is returned to the process. The clarified water flows into a cistern, where it is directed to final filtration units that remove fine particulate matter. The filtered water is then stored in a reuse tank and pumped back to the paper machines. This closed-loop system ensures high-efficiency removal of contaminants while maximizing water reuse within the industrial process.

The São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) sites produce disposable diapers and convert jumbo rolls into end products. These sites use dry-process technology, which does not require water, and only sanitary effluents are generated. As a result, no industrial effluent is generated at these sites. Sanitary effluents are collected through dedicated systems and periodically removed by vacuum trucks that transport the material to licensed treatment stations: in São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA), the waste is sent to the Feira de Santana Wastewater Treatment Plant (BA), while in Pombos (PE), it is sent to the Recife Wastewater Treatment Plant (PE).

We continuously conduct climate zoning studies using historical climate data such as precipitation, temperature, and latitude. This analysis helps us identify optimal areas for eucalyptus planting and make climate region-specific technical recommendations, including clone allocation and fertilization strategies. We do not source water from areas with water stress.

In our São Paulo pulp operations, surface freshwater withdrawals are measured directly at licensed intake points designated for forestry operations. Additionally, groundwater withdrawn from a well at the Lençóis Paulista mill is used for seedling production in the nursery. Withdrawal volumes are recorded in an internal database that is managed in accordance with applicable regulations, covering all operational fronts. Bracell holds permits for both surface water withdrawals from the Tietê River and groundwater withdrawals from licensed wells. Bracell Papéis São Paulo does not conduct direct environmental withdrawals and instead receives water from Bracell Celulose São Paulo (refer to GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Water and effluents for details).

In Bahia, groundwater withdrawal is measured using telemetry-enabled water meters. Surface water withdrawals are tracked through control logs, maintained in either printed or digital (survey-based) formats. In accordance with internal procedures, all surface and groundwater withdrawal data is submitted to the environmental team, which consolidates, analyzes, and reports this information to the relevant operations managers. Bracell’s Bahia operations follow Ordinance No. 25.954, which authorizes groundwater use in the Recôncavo Norte Watershed, and Inema Ordinance No. 22.181/2021, which establishes a framework for monitoring and control of water resource use in the state of Bahia.

Our Bahia forestry operations maintain a robust environmental water monitoring network, including 23 stations for monitoring surface (river) water quality, 8 stations for monitoring groundwater quality (artesian wells), 13 fixed stations for analyzing water potability (fitness for human consumption), 5 mobile stations for analyzing water potability (fitness for human consumption) at operations fronts, 37 flow metering stations at permitted surface water withdrawal points along rivers, 2 stations at locations where effluents are discharged from seedling nurseries, and 1 station where effluents are discharged from a water and oil separator.

Additionally, at four of our farm bases in Bahia, water is extracted from artesian wells for human consumption. Withdrawal volumes are recorded in an internal database that is managed in accordance with applicable regulations, covering all operational fronts.

In 2024, there were some restatements to water withdrawal data compared to the figures reported in 2023. Surface water withdrawal in our Bahia forestry operations dropped by 61%. In our São Paulo operations, forestry withdrawals increased by 50.2%, while mill withdrawals decreased by 3.9%.

Groundwater withdrawal decreased by 5.4% in Bahia’s forestry operations and 12.4% in São Paulo. Our São Paul mill recorded a 2.6% reduction.

The reduction in surface water withdrawals in our São Paulo forestry operations, compared to 2023 was due to the severe dry season in 2024, increasing the need for irrigation. Planted area in 2024 was also larger than in 2023, which affected the amount of irrigated area. In this operation, improvements were also made to water monitoring processes, supporting better management of water metrics. At our nurseries in São Paulo, water withdrawals decreased as a result of good management practices. No significant changes were observed to explain the variation in withdrawal volumes compared to 2023.

At our São Paulo mill, the reduction in water withdrawals is due to the plant’s close-loop system and increased recycling of water from the stormwater lagoon to the wastewater treatment plant for industrial use (in 2024, this volume was more than twice that of 2023). As a percentage, the total volume of water recycled compared to total withdrawals was 2.4% in 2023 and 5.1% in 2024. Another factor behind the reduction in water withdrawals was the startup of our Bracell Papéis facility. This facility is connected to the Lençóis Paulista pulp plant and features technologies designed to enhance water efficiency in Tissue production. Water management, now integrated across both plants, also supported process improvements at the mill.

Surface water withdrawals (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	2,198	0	2,198	29,456	0	29,456	4,811	0	4,811	64,927	0	64,927	25,351	0	25,351
São Paulo Pulp	309,165	0	309,165	328,484	12,947,445	13,275,929	314,537	49,223,892	49,538,429	457,789	52,016,479	52,474,269	550,327	49,972,528	50,522,855
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1,144,604	1,144,604
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Bracell	311,363	0	311,363	357,940	12,947,445	13,305,385	319,348	49,223,892	49,543,240	522,716	52,016,479	52,539,196	575,678	51,117,132	51,692,810

Groundwater withdrawals (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	889,754	14,720,841	15,610,595	872,245	14,559,672	15,431,917	851,887	15,145,471	15,997,358	874,462	15,738,831	16,613,293	827,071	15,681,068	16,508,139
São Paulo Pulp	282,428	6,831,882	7,114,310	395,258	7,071,663	7,466,921	405,286	6,520,494	6,925,780	556,641	4,342,162	4,898,803	486,285	4,231,181	4,717,466
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	214,184	214,184
Bracell	889,754	14,720,841	22,724,905	1,267,503	21,631,336	22,898,838	1,257,173	21,665,965	22,923,138	1,431,103	20,080,993	21,512,096	1,313,356	20,126,433	21,439,789

Total water withdrawal (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	891,952	14,720,841	15,612,793	901,701	14,559,672	15,461,373	856,698	15,145,471	16,002,169	939,389	15,738,831	16,678,220	852,422	15,681,068	16,533,490
São Paulo Pulp	591,593	6,831,882	7,423,475	723,742	20,019,108	20,742,850	719,823	55,744,386	56,464,209	1,014,430	56,358,642	57,373,072	1,036,612	54,203,709	55,240,321
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1,144,604	1,144,604
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	214,184	214,184
Bracell	1,483,545	21,552,723	23,036,268	1,625,443	34,578,781	36,204,224	1,576,521	70,889,856	72,466,377	1,953,819	72,097,472	74,051,291	1,889,034	71,243,565	73,132,599

Note 1: Bracell Papéis was established in 2023 and is reporting its environmental performance for the first time, with data from 2024. Bracell Papéis Sudeste does not operate any direct water withdrawal points (surface or groundwater); instead, it uses water sourced through the Bracell pulp mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP).

Note 2: the reported water withdrawal volume for our São Paulo pulp and Southeast paper operations includes only the pulp mill’s primary sources: six licensed groundwater wells and one surface water intake on the Tietê River.

Note 3: the water withdrawal volume for our Northeast paper operation refers to the mill in Feira de Santana (BA). At the São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) sites, there are no water withdrawals as these facilities use dry processing.

Note 4: the reported water withdrawal volume for forestry operations includes licensed withdrawal points in the states of Minas Gerais, Paraná, and São Paulo. All withdrawal points are monitored and managed by the Environmental Department of Bracell’s São Paulo forestry operations. Learn more about our forestry water management practices under GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Water and effluents.

Water withdrawals per metric ton of pulp produced (m³/adt)

Year	m3/adt
2020	30.04
2021	26.85
2022	20.42
2023	20.69
2024	19.20

We are the first company in the pulp industry in São Paulo to implement three-stage effluent treatment:

1. Primary treatment: mechanical removal of fibers and inorganic compounds through solid-liquid separation

2. Secondary treatment: biological treatment of organic matter using activated sludge systems to significantly reduce organic load

3. Tertiary treatment: an advanced filtration or “polishing” stage to ensure effluent quality prior to discharge into the Tietê River

Tertiary effluent treatment supports high-performance removal of organic load—as measured by Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)—at approximately 98% efficiency, far exceeding federal regulatory requirements (Conama Resolution 430/2011). In addition, approximately 92% of water withdrawals are returned to the Tietê River as treated effluent.

Effluent discharge limits are set in accordance with Brazilian environmental laws and standards, including Article 18 of Decree No. 8.468/1976, Article 16 of CONAMA Resolution 430/2011, the state environmental regulator’s (CETESB) Technical Reference Document, Technical Opinion 072/18/IPSE, and international eco-label standards such as Nordic Swan and the EU Ecolabel (see GRI 2-6 About Bracell for further details).

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), process water is collected post-use and pumped to Bracell’s on-site primary treatment system, which includes a sedimentation step. The organic effluent is then sent to the local utility, which performs secondary biological treatment (activated sludge), ensuring more than 95% removal of organic load. The treated effluent is then discharged into the ocean via a dedicated outfall pipeline, in compliance with Inema Ordinance No. 16.507/2018 and No 18.841/19, Conama Resolution No. 430/2011, and other regulations issued by the relevant environmental agencies.

We consistently maintain quality standards that surpass national regulatory requirements, with especially rigorous monitoring of parameters like Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). In our São Paulo operations, BOD was 13.8 mg/L and COD was 207.3 mg/L (), both within the limits established by federal regulations (Conama Resolution No. 430/2011), where the BOD limit is 60%. This performance reflects the effectiveness of the tertiary treatment system built at our pulp facility.

In our Bahia operations, continuous COD monitoring ensures the primary treatment system is performing optimally. The secondary treatment stage effectively reduces organic load, though due to mixing with effluents from other industrial operators within the complex, it is not possible to measure Bracell’s isolated contribution to the final effluent discharged offshore.

Bracell did not detect harmful substances in wastewater that could cause irreversible damage to water bodies, ecosystems, or human health. To define priority discharge substances, Bracell follows the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality.

In 2024, we recorded three incidents of regulatory non-compliance in Bahia, occurring in March, April, and June. These were related to pH, total suspended solids (TSS), and settleable solids (SS) in the Inorganic System (SI) and were reported to the Bahia State environmental regulator (INEMA) as required. The anomalies were attributed to intense rainfall, which increased system flow. In response, our operations team conducted targeted inspections to identify root causes and implemented corrective actions to ensure compliance with environmental requirements.

Our Northeast paper operations do not discharge effluents, and our Southeast paper operations route 100% of effluents to the Lençóis Paulista (SP) site treatment plant. Bracell does not discharge water in areas classified as water-stressed (see more in section GRI 2-6 About Bracell).

Surface water discharges (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	0	0	0	0	312,800	312,800	0	153,151	153,151	0	97,615	97,615	0	142,030	142,030
São Paulo Pulp	0	0	0	0	15,745,505	15,745,505	0	51,451,820	51,451,820	0	49,309,676	49,309,676	0	49,760,589	49,760,589
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1,225,111	1,225,111
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Bracell	0	0	0	0	16,058,305	16,058,305	0	51,604,971	51,604,971	0	49,407,291	49,407,291	0	51,127,730	51,127,730

 

Submarine outfall discharges (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	0	0	0	0	12,209,740	12,209,740	0	12,601,858	12,601,858	0	13,313,281	13,313,281	0	13,197,242	13,197,242
São Paulo Pulp	0	0	0	0	0	0	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Bracell	0	0	0	0	12,209,740	12,209,740	0	12,601,858	12,601,858	0	13,313,281	13,313,281	0	13,197,242	13,197,242

 

Total water withdrawal (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	0	0	12,739,374	0	12,522,540	12,522,540	0	12,755,009	12,755,009	0	13,410,896	13,410,896	0	13,339,272	13,339,272
São Paulo Pulp	0	0	5,208,374	0	15,745,505	15,745,505	0	51,451,820	51,451,820	0	49,309,676	49,309,676	0	49,760,589	49,760,589
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	1,225,111	1,225,111
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0	0
Bracell	0	0	17,947,748	0	28,268,045	28,268,045	0	64,206,829	64,206,829	0	62,720,572	62,720,572	0	64,324,972	64,324,972

Note 1: Effluents from Bracell’s São Paulo pulp and Southeast paper operations are jointly treated at a single Wastewater Treatment Plant (WTP) located at the Lençóis Paulista site. While our Southeast paper operations do not discharge effluent directly to the environment, its entire wastewater stream is routed to the WTP, which also processes effluents from the pulp manufacturing operation.

Note 2: in our mill operations in Bahia, only one effluent stream is discharged into the river, namely inorganic effluent or stormwater, which is directed to the CETREL inorganic effluent flume, where it is mixed with other inorganic effluents from the Industrial Park before being discharged into the river.

Note 2: at the Feira de Santana site (Bahia), Bracell Papéis Nordeste operates a closed-loop Wastewater Treatment Plant, which recirculates process water internally. As a result, no effluents are discharged to the environment. The same applies to the São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) units, as these facilities use dry processing.

Note 4: Bracell does not discharge effluents into groundwater.

Water consumption across Bracell’s operations is calculated by subtracting the volume of effluent discharged from the total volume of water withdrawn.

The Bracell Papéis Sudeste plant reported negative water consumption because it uses the water contained in the pulp itself, which is used in the Tissue production process. This is made possible by the facility’s strategic location adjacent to and integrated with Bracell’s Lençóis Paulista (SP) site. The pulp, which serves as the feedstock for tissue production, is transported via pipeline, eliminating the need for prior drying. The water contained in the pulp used in the process contributes to the discharge volume, but it is not counted in the water consumption for the Tissue production process. Combined, these factors result in a net-negative water consumption figure.

Bracell Papéis Nordeste does not discharge any effluents. Total water withdrawal in Feira de Santana (BA) was 193,603 m³ in 2024 (see GRI 303-3 Water withdrawal for additional details).

 

Total water consumption (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	0	0	2,873,420	901,701	2,037,132	2,938,833	856,698	2,390,462	3,247,160	939,389	2,327,934	3,267,323	852,422	2,341,796	3,194,218
São Paulo Pulp	0	0	1,734,762	723,742	4,273,603	4,997,345	719,823	4,292,566	5,012,389	1,014,430	7,048,965	8,063,396	1,023,525	4,443,120	5,466,645
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	-80,507	-80,507
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Bracell	0	0	4,608,182	1,625,443	6,310,735	7,936,179	1,576,521	6,683,028	8,259,549	1,953,819	9,376,900	11,330,719	1,875,947	6,704,409	8,580,356
Note 1: the negative water consumption reported by our Southeast paper operations is due to the use of wet (undried) pulp, which contains water that is not captured in withdrawal data. A portion of this water is lost through evaporation or retained in the final tissue product, and therefore not counted as consumption. However, it may be included in the effluent volume, potentially resulting in effluent discharge exceeding recorded water withdrawal.      Note 2: Bracell Papéis Nordeste does not discharge any effluents. In 2024, water withdrawal at the Feira de Santana (BA) site totaled 193,603 m3.

The reported water withdrawal volume for our São Paulo pulp and Southeast paper operations includes only the pulp mill’s primary sources: six licensed groundwater wells and one surface water intake on the Tietê River.

Bracell Papéis was established in 2023 and is reporting its environmental performance for the first time, with data from 2024. Bracell Papéis Sudeste does not operate any direct water withdrawal points (surface or groundwater); instead, it uses water sourced through the Bracell Pulp production site.

The water withdrawal volume for the Papéis Nordeste operation refers to our mills in Feira de Santana (BA). At the São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) sites, there are no water withdrawals as these facilities use dry processing.

Surface water withdrawals (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	2,198	0	2,198	29,456	0	29,456	4,811	0	4,811	64,927	0	64,927	25,351	0	25,351
São Paulo Pulp	309,165	0	309,165	328,484	12,947,445	13,275,929	314,537	49,223,892	49,538,429	457,789	52,016,479	52,474,269	550,327	49,972,528	50,522,855
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1,144,604	1,144,604
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Bracell	311,363	0	311,363	357,940	12,947,445	13,305,385	319,348	49,223,892	49,543,240	522,716	52,016,479	52,539,196	575,678	51,117,132	51,692,810

 

Surface water withdrawals (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	889,754	14,720,841	15,610,595	872,245	14,559,672	15,431,917	851,887	15,145,471	15,997,358	874,462	15,738,831	16,613,293	827,071	15,681,068	16,508,139
São Paulo Pulp	282,428	6,831,882	7,114,310	395,258	7,071,663	7,466,921	405,286	6,520,494	6,925,780	556,641	4,342,162	4,898,803	486,285	4,231,181	4,717,466
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	0	0
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	214,184	214,184
Bracell	889,754	14,720,841	22,724,905	1,267,503	21,631,336	22,898,838	1,257,173	21,665,965	22,923,138	1,431,103	20,080,993	21,512,096	1,313,356	20,126,433	21,439,789

 

Total water withdrawal (m³)

Operation	2020			2021			2022			2023			2024
	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total	Forestry	Mill	Total
Bahia Pulp	891,952	14,720,841	15,612,793	901,701	14,559,672	15,461,373	856,698	15,145,471	16,002,169	939,389	15,738,831	16,678,220	852,422	15,681,068	16,533,490
São Paulo Pulp	591,593	6,831,882	7,423,475	723,742	20,019,108	20,742,850	719,823	55,744,386	56,464,209	1,014,430	56,358,642	57,373,072	1,036,612	54,203,709	55,240,321
Southeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	1,144,604	1,144,604
Northeast Paper Operations	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	214,184	214,184
Bracell	1,483,545	21,552,723	23,036,268	1,625,443	34,578,781	36,204,224	1,576,521	70,889,856	72,466,377	1,953,819	72,097,472	74,051,291	1,889,034	71,243,565	73,132,599

Note 1: Bracell Papéis was established in 2023 and is reporting its environmental performance for the first time, with data from 2024. Bracell Papéis Sudeste does not operate any direct water withdrawal points (surface or groundwater); instead, it uses water sourced through the Bracell pulp mill in Lençóis Paulista (SP).

Note 2: the reported water withdrawal volume for the São Paulo Celulose and Papéis Sudeste operations includes only the pulp mill’s primary sources: six licensed groundwater wells and one surface water intake on the Tietê River.

Note 3: the water withdrawal volume for the Papéis Nordeste operation refers to the mill in Feira de Santana (BA). At the São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA) and Pombos (PE) sites, there are no water withdrawals as these facilities use dry processing.

Note 4: the reported water withdrawal volume for forestry operations includes licensed withdrawal points in the states of Minas Gerais, Paraná, and São Paulo. All withdrawal points are monitored and managed by the Environmental Department of Bracell’s São Paulo forestry operations. Learn more about our forestry water management practices under GRI 3-3 Management of the material topic: Water and effluents.

Bracell operates pulp production facilities in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia) and the Lençóis Paulista Industrial Park(São Paulo), along with Tissue manufacturing facilities in Lençóis Paulista (SP), Pombos (PE), Feira de Santana (BA), and São Gonçalo dos Campos (BA). Our pulp business also includes forestry operations—from planting through harvesting—in the states of Bahia, São Paulo, and Sergipe

Water and effluent management is a material topic for Bracell. Our management practices include clearly defined reduction targets for water use in pulp production, as well as policies and initiatives to protect water resources and preserve regional watersheds. We have set targets to improve operational water efficiency, mitigate water availability risks and impacts, and optimize effluent management practices.

We monitor and control water withdrawal, discharge, and consumption across both our mill and forestry operations. Our Integrated Management System comprises corporate policies, standard operating procedures, and risk, aspect and impact matrixes. These policies and procedures comply with the requirements of ISO 14001, ISO 9001, Forestry Certification Endorsement Program (PEFC) certification requirements, applicable Brazilian legislation, regulatory standards and international sustainability management protocols.

The Environmental and Certification teams in our forestry and mill operations manage our Integrated Management System. These teams report annually to their respective General Operations Managers on continuous improvement in environmental performance and certification compliance.

As part of Bracell 2030, our sustainability roadmap, we have set a target for improving water efficiency in our mill processes. By 2030, we aim to achieve a 40% reduction in water intensity per metric ton of pulp produced, reaching 16.6 m³/adt. In 2024, our water intensity stood at 19.2 m³/adt, in line with our target for the year.

In our forestry operations, eucalyptus planting is informed by a climate zoning study conducted by our Forest R&D team. This study analyzes historical climate data such as precipitation, temperature, and latitude. Based on collected data, land with greater water availability may be recommended (read more about our management approach in Climate Action).

We are actively engaged in reducing the use of harmful chemicals and inorganic fertilizers in our forestry operations, which can contaminate soil and water resources. In line with international conventions, including lthe Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions, we are phasing out sulfluramid and exploring safer alternatives for managing leaf-cutting ants. Our teams participate in collaborative research programs and conduct in-house testing to identify safer substitutes.

To further reduce synthetic fertilizer use, Bracell is exploring the application of organomineral fertilizers produced from organic waste generated by our own facilities. A composting plant feasibility study is currently underway. We have also begun producing potassium sulfate from an effluent stream in our pulp production process, reducing our reliance on imported potassium chloride.

List of chemicals used

Category	Active ingredient
Fungicide	Azoxystrobin + Difenoconazole
Fungicide	Mancozeb + Azoxystrobin
Fungicide	Metconazole
Fungicide	Pyraclostrobin
Fungicide	Tebuconazole + Trifloxystrobin
Herbicide	Flumioxazin
Herbicide	Fluroxypyr + Triclopyr
Herbicide	Glyphosate
Herbicide	Haloxyfop
Herbicide	Haloxyfop + Clethodim
Herbicide	Indaziflam
Herbicide	Isoxaflutole
Herbicide	Oxyfluorfen
Herbicide	Saflufenacil
Herbicide	Sulfentrazone
Herbicide	Triclopyr
Insecticide	Acetamiprid + Bifenthrin
Insecticide	Alpha-cypermethrin
Insecticide	Bifenthrin
Insecticide	Deltamethrin
Insecticide	Fipronil
Insecticide	Imidacloprid
Insecticide	Isocycloseram
Insecticide	Sulfluramid
Insecticide	Thiamethoxam

Water withdrawal management

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), water is withdrawn from 11 groundwater wells located near the plant within the Recôncavo Norte Watershed. These withdrawals are made under a permit from the Bahia State Environmental Agency (Inema). We also withdraw groundwater at our Bracell Papéis plant in the Northeast, in Feira de Santana, via 14 deep cased wells operating under a permit issued by Inema. The wells are continuously monitored for flow rate, water table levels, and Hydro accordance with regulations.

At our Lençóis Paulista (São Paulo) site, water is sourced from six deep cased wells and surface water drawn from the Tietê River, at an intake 22 km from the mill. The site also has a system to collect rainwater. We additionally operate groundwater withdrawal systems at two nurseries in São Paulo: one in Lençóis Paulista and another in Avaí.

Our forestry operations, which supply raw material to both the Camaçari and Lençóis Paulista mills, similarly withdraw both surface and groundwater. Across all operations, our water withdrawal points are distributed as follows: 37 in Bahia, 251 in São Paulo, 14 in Minas Gerais, and 2 in Paraná. All withdrawals are made under permits issued by the respective environmental authorities. Withdrawal points are periodically monitored in accordance with license requirements (learn more under GRI 303-3 Water withdrawal).

In Bahia, we withdraw surface water from six major rivers: Pojuca, Subaúma, Itariri, Inhambupe, Sauípe and Imbassaí. In São Paulo, withdrawals are made from nine designated Water Resource Management Units (UGRHIs): Aguapeí, Peixe, Upper Paranapanema, Middle Paranapanema, Pontal do Paranapanema, Tietê Batalha, Tietê Jacaré, Tietê Sorocaba, and Piracicaba/Capivari/Jundiaí. In Minas Gerais, our water sources include Ribeirão da Onça, Ribeirão Jacurutu and its tributaries, Rio do Peixe, Córrego Sobrado, and Rio Jequitaí. In Paraná, water is withdrawn from Ribeirão Jundiaí.

We evaluate potential impacts on water resources using an impact matrix that accounts for the scale and intensity of forestry activities. Based on this analysis, we implement preventive and mitigation measures as needed. Regular water quality assessments are conducted to evaluate the effects of our forestry operations. As of 2024, the results indicate no adverse impacts.

Water Resources Monitoring Program

Our Water Resource Monitoring Plan tracks withdrawal volumes to ensure compliance with permit requirements and licensing covenants issued by environmental authorities.

Water management in the Camaçari Industrial Park is overseen by an independent firm that monitors both water availability and quality. The park’s Water Resources Management Plan includes risk assessments and action plans for 100% of tenants (read more about effluent management under GRI 303-4 Water discharge).

Bracell protects natural watercourses with vegetated buffer zones. We use official data from the Rural Environmental Register (CAR) to georeference information about the farms we manage. In our geographic information system, we intersect this data with other data sets, such as those compiled in our protected areas and buffer zones. This informs our operational procedures on each property, depending on the constraints and conditions set in management plans (read more in Sustainable Landscapes and Biodiversity).

Consumption management

Our facilities use partially closed-loop water systems that support water recycling throughout the production process, minimizing freshwater withdrawals. At our new Tissue facility in Lençóis Paulista (SP), water used in manufacturing is extracted directly from the pulp, purified within the process, and then reused. This reduces water intake and enhances overall water efficiency.

At Bracell Papéis Nordeste, in Feira de Santana (BA), wastewater is recovered after treatment and returned to the process, further reducing fresh water consumption. This facility is designed as a fully closed loop, with 100% of process water recycled (read more about the sustainability attributes of our operations under GRI 2-6 About Bracell).

In our nurseries, water is primarily used for seedling irrigation. At our nursery located in Bahia, we also maintain eucalyptus plantation areas. Excess irrigation water is directed to drainage systems, infiltrating the soil in the eucalyptus stands. In our forestry operations, water serves various purposes, including seedling watering, preparation of chemical treatment mixtures, firefighting, dust suppression and maintenance of service roads, and equipment cleaning.

In Bahia, Bracell collaborates with public agencies and local communities to help ensure water availability. Monitoring is conducted by an independent firm based in the Camaçari industrial park, which identifies potential risks and implements corrective action (see GRI 303-2 Management of water discharge related impacts for additional information).

To ensure responsible and compliant water consumption we conduct regular environmental monitoring across our forestry and mill sites in São Paulo and Bahia. This monitoring is performed by laboratories accredited under NBR ISO/IEC 17025 and includes assessments of both groundwater and surface water quality, as well as potability testing for human consumption, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations.

Effluent management and discharge

Our pulp production facilities are certified to ISO 14001:2015, which ensures water consumption and discharge points are systematically managed and controlled within an internal environmental management system, including consumption limits and strategies for reuse and reduction.

We are the first company in the pulp industry in São Paulo to implement three-stage effluent treatment:

1. Primary treatment: mechanical removal of fibers and inorganic compounds through solid-liquid separation
2. Secondary treatment: biological treatment of organic matter using activated sludge systems to significantly reduce organic load
3. Tertiary treatment: final polishing of the treated effluent through a chemical flotation system, ensuring it meets appropriate quality standards before it is returned to the Tietê River.

Tertiary effluent treatment supports high-performance removal of organic load—as measured by Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)—at approximately 98% efficiency, far exceeding federal regulatory requirements (Conama Resolution 430/2011). In addition, approximately 92% of water withdrawals are returned to the Tietê River as treated effluent.

Effluent discharge limits are set in accordance with Brazilian environmental laws and standards, including Article 18 of Decree No. 8.468/1976, Article 16 of CONAMA Resolution 430/2011, the state environmental regulator’s (CETESB) Technical Reference Document, Technical Opinion 072/18/IPSE, and international eco-label standards such as Nordic Swan and the EU Ecolabel (see GRI 2-6 About Bracell for further details).

At our mill in the Camaçari Industrial Park (Bahia), process water is collected post-use and pumped to Bracell’s on-site primary treatment system, which includes a sedimentation step. The organic effluent is then sent to the local utility, which performs secondary biological treatment (activated sludge), ensuring more than 95% removal of organic load. The treated effluent is then discharged into the Atlantic Ocean through a submarine outfall, in compliance with CONAMA Resolution 430/2011 and the guidelines of the Bahia state environmental authority (INEMA).

We consistently maintain quality standards that surpass national regulatory requirements, with especially rigorous monitoring of parameters like BOD and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD). At our operations in São Paulo, BOD levels are approximately 98% above the threshold required by federal regulations (Conama Resolution No. 430/2011), reflecting the efficiency of our exclusive tertiary treatment system. In our Bahia operations, continuous COD monitoring ensures the primary treatment system is performing optimally. The secondary treatment stage effectively reduces organic load, though due to mixing with effluents from other industrial operators within the complex, it is not possible to measure Bracell’s isolated contribution to the final effluent discharged offshore.