A Transition Toward a Circular Economy: Insights from Brazilian National Policy on Solid Waste

Abstract

This chapter discusses how the actual Brazilian National Policy on Solid Waste (BNPSW) - Law n. 12.305/2010 - aligns with the circular economy (CE) principles considering, especially, its potential to close the loop in solid waste production. This study’s emphasis is to recognize the main points to enable the CE with the aid of already existing Brazilian environmental policies, using tools as the waste hierarchy, reverse logistics, and shared postconsumer responsibility for a more efficient waste management. To contribute to this discussion, this chapter has set on four-part contributions: Part 1 begins by laying out a theoretical systematic understanding of how BNPSW contributes to the CE thinking implementation in Brazil. Part 2 presents and discusses all potential barriers to the adoption of solid waste management from a CE perspective. Part 3 develops a SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunities, and threats) analysis from BNPSW under a CE perspective. Finally, Part 4 presents a conclusion with the main findings and recommendations to assist the transition to CE in waste management legislation.