Reforestation effort earns Port of Suape top sustainability certification

Reducing the environmental footprint of economic activity has become an urgent challenge. In the port sector, where operations often span large areas, compensatory initiatives are increasingly used to mitigate the impacts of infrastructure and human activity. One such initiative—led by the Port of Suape in the northeastern state of Pernambuco—has earned national recognition, with the port receiving the Ministry of Ports and Airports’ Sustainability Seal at the Diamond level.

In 2025, Suape planted 1,000 seedlings of native Atlantic Forest species in an area considered strategic for groundwater recharge. The goal was to protect natural springs and riparian forests, which play a key role in preventing river siltation and safeguarding water quality for the port complex and surrounding communities.

The reforestation campaign took place in March 2025, marking World Water Day, and was carried out in partnership with the municipal environmental agency of Ipojuca, which hosts part of Suape’s territory. Students from the local public school system, port volunteers and environmental technicians took part in the effort.

“The Port of Suape shows a strong commitment to the environment and to neighboring communities by promoting an exemplary reforestation initiative combined with environmental education for local youth,” said Ports and Airports Minister Silvio Costa Filho. “It is a meaningful and effective way to care for our future, deserving recognition and applause.”

Seedlings planted included brazilwood, ipê, cajá, pitanga, genipap, cupiúba and ingá—tree species that enrich soil nutrients and produce fruit that supports local wildlife.

“These seedlings are the result of ongoing work at Suape’s Forest Nursery, where we cultivate more than 80 native Atlantic Forest species,” said Mirella Moraes, Suape’s environmental development coordinator.

“The initiative reinforces the port’s commitment to sustainable development and ESG practices by restoring degraded areas and protecting water resources,” she added.

Nearly 60% of the Port of Suape’s territory is designated as an Ecological Preservation Zone. The port complex covers more than 13,000 hectares—roughly the size of the city of Niterói—and spans the municipalities of Cabo de Santo Agostinho and Ipojuca, along Pernambuco’s southern coast.

Source: Communications Office, Ministry of Ports and Airports

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