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    Strengthening Recycling Cooperatives   

    One of the guidelines of Vale’s Waste Management Plan is the valuation of recyclable waste and its allocation to cooperatives near our operating sites. In Brazil’s southeastern state of Minas Gerais, we develop a project to strengthen cooperatives and associations with the goal of increasing the resilience of these organizations and enhancing their capacity to receive recyclable materials such as paper, cardboard and plastics from Vale’s mines. This project aims to generate positive social, environmental and economic impact. 

    The project involved 155 waste pickers in nine municipalities. Besides strengthening the unity among cooperative member and opening leadership to new projects and activities, the initiative significantly increased earning and productivity. 

    The results include a 25% increase in the sale of recyclable materials and a 72% increase in average monthly revenue. Productivity also grew by 40%, along with improvements in ergonomics and quality of life for cooperative members. In 2023, we allocated approximately 300 tons of recyclable waste to cooperatives in the state. This initiative demonstrates Vale's commitment to sustainability and community development, promoting waste management that benefits both the environment and society.

    Participating Entities 

    Association  Municipalities 
    Ascap
    Nova Lima
    Ascito
    Itabirito
    Ascacon
    Congonhas
    Atlimarjom
    João Monlevade
    Ascaripi
    Rio Piracicaba
    Asmarcol
    Conselheiro Lafaiete
    Aserbac
    Barão de Cocais
    Camar
    Mariana
    Itaurb
    Itabira

    Photographer: Ricardo Teles

    Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) 

    Vale undertakes actions to expedite the environmentally correct disposal of waste containing PCBs at all operations units. PCBs are organic compounds found in equipment such as electrical transformers, and they are considered environmental contaminants, posing risk to health and ecosystems.

    The company has established a gradual process for the disposal of this waste, aligning the maintenance cycles of electrical equipment with the anticipation of PCB disposal targets. According to the Stockholm Convention, the goal for ending PCBs use is 2025, with the assurance of environmentally sound final disposal by 2028. By 2023, Vale disposed of approximately 350 tons of PCB-containing waste.

    Photographer: Felipe Borges

    Regenerating Used Oil  

    At the Waste Management Center (CMD) in Carajás, Vale has implemented a unit for regenerating used hydraulic oils. The process includes prior analysis of the oils at the source, followed by collection, filtration, regeneration, and reused in maintenance workshops.

    We regenerate approximately 1 million liters per year, significantly reducing the need to purchase new oils for the operational units’ maintenance areas.

    Recycling Off-Road Tires 

    Vale allocates scraps off-road tires generated in its operations in Pará and Minas Gerais to recycling companies. Recycling these tires is challenging due to their bulky size, which can exceed four meters in diameter, and their tough steel cord reinforcement that complicates handling and cutting. About 9,000 tons of tires are recycled annually.

    The resulting scrap metal is used in the production of rebar for the construction industry. The tires are transformed into coating plates or rubber chips for automotive and cement industries.

    Photographer: Will Etchebehere