Brazil’s navigation sector invests over R$70 million in environmental, social and governance initiatives

Brazil’s waterway transport sector is strengthening its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, according to the Sustainability Report released by the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor) in partnership with the Association of Private Port Terminals (ATP).

The study, which surveyed 20 companies in the sector, shows that maritime and inland navigation firms invested R$71.9 million in ESG (environmental, social, and governance) initiatives between 2023 and 2024.

Governance accounted for the largest share, with R$40 million allocated to establishing compliance departments, conducting external audits, and adopting transparency policies. The environmental category received R$17.8 million, directed toward impact mitigation, biofuel use, and effluent control, while social investments totaled R$14.1 million, focusing on professional training, diversity, and support for riverside communities.

The report also found that the sector achieved an average adherence rate of 56.4% to environmental indicators, a positive result with a growth trend driven by new International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines aimed at global decarbonization by 2050. The study highlights that the adoption of cleaner technologies and the gradual replacement of fossil fuels are expected to enhance the sustainability potential of Brazilian navigation in the coming years.

According to Ports and Airports Minister Silvio Costa Filho, the findings highlight the progress of the ecological transition in Brazil’s waterway sector and reinforce its role in reducing emissions and improving national logistics integration.“Waterway transport is a strategic asset for Brazil and a foundation of our green economy. This report shows we are moving in the right direction — toward greater innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in cargo and passenger transport,” the minister stated.

The Sustainability Report is part of MPor’s efforts to advance the ESG agenda in national infrastructure. The initiative aligns with Brazil’s National Sustainability Policy and the Sustainability Pact, launched in 2024, which set goals and incentives to expand public and private sector engagement in environmental, social, and governance practices.

During COP30 in Belém, the Ministry of Ports and Airports will grant the first recognition seals to companies and entities that have joined the Sustainability Pact, acknowledging best practices and encouraging new ESG actions in the sector.

Source: Informativo dos Portos

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