Waterways cut emissions and consolidate themselves as a model for sustainable logistics

River transport in the Amazon has consolidated itself as one of the cleanest and most efficient modes within Brazil’s logistics matrix. According to a survey by the National Secretariat for Waterways and Navigation (SNHN) of the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor), the energy efficiency of barges is 78% higher than road transport and more than 30% higher than rail transport, considering fuel consumption per tonne transported.

In a global context demanding reductions in carbon footprints, the waterways of the Northern Arc stand out as a competitive advantage for Brazil. The use of convoys comprising dozens of barges enables large volumes of cargo to be moved with lower fuel consumption per tonne, resulting in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas (CO₂) emissions.

Beyond the environmental gains, the economic advantage is also substantial. According to a technical survey by the MPor, inland waterway transport can be up to 50% more cost-effective over long distances, complementing road transport and increasing the competitiveness of Brazilian products.

“Investing in waterways is a federal government commitment to economic competitiveness and environmental preservation. When we integrate rivers into cargo transport, we are creating smarter logistics that reduce costs for producers and balance our transport matrix. This allows each mode to operate where it is most efficient, generating development with sustainability,” said the Minister of Ports and Airports, Silvio Costa Filho.

Investments

To enhance these benefits, the federal government has encouraged the renewal and expansion of the fleet through the Merchant Marine Fund (FMM). In the Northern region, projects for the construction of new barges and pushboats total R$2.7 billion in investments, with R$2.17 billion allocated to Pará and R$510.9 million to Amazonas. A large share of these vessels is being built in shipyards within the region itself, generating jobs, income, and strengthening the regional shipbuilding industry.

“With the support of the Merchant Marine Fund, we are modernising this fleet to consolidate a mode of transport that is affordable for producers and safe for the environment,” said Otto Burlier, National Secretary for Waterways and Navigation.

This modal integration also delivers a direct environmental benefit to biodiversity. By concentrating large cargo volumes on rivers, traffic flows are optimised on highways that cross sensitive biomes such as the Pantanal and the Cerrado. The strategy helps ease heavy traffic on critical road sections, reducing risks to wildlife and increasing safety for road users.

Source: Ministério dos Portos e Aeroportos

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