Brazil’s reverse logistics system for pesticide packaging is entering a new operational phase, as a nationwide itinerant collection programme for empty agrochemical containers begins in March 2026.

The initiative, known as recebimento itinerante, supports the country’s established reverse logistics model for empty pesticide packaging, widely regarded as one of the most advanced globally.

It aims to improve collection rates in rural areas by bringing temporary drop-off points closer to farmers, reducing transport barriers and ensuring compliant disposal.

The programme forms part of Brazil’s wider regulatory push on reverse logistics and sustainable packaging, including stricter national requirements for plastic packaging recovery and recycling introduced in 2026.

Itinerant collection expands access

The 2026 schedule covers multiple municipalities, with temporary collection points set up on specific dates to receive empty pesticide containers from rural producers.

The system targets regions where permanent facilities are not easily accessible. By decentralising collection, authorities aim to increase participation and reduce improper disposal.

Farmers are required to return containers after proper preparation, including triple washing and perforation, in line with Brazilian environmental rules. Only correctly handled packaging is accepted at collection points.

Local agricultural authorities state that the mobile format “facilitates delivery in more remote areas” and helps ensure compliance with environmental standards. The approach also supports traceability within the reverse logistics chain.

Brazil has developed a structured system for this waste stream over several decades.

Industry data shows that large volumes of crop protection packaging are already recovered and processed through national schemes, with most material recycled and the remainder safely treated.

Reverse logistics under regulatory pressure

The rollout of the 2026 collection programme comes as Brazil strengthens its regulatory framework for packaging waste management and circular economy practices.

New federal rules require companies placing plastic packaging on the market to meet rising recovery targets, starting at 32% in 2026 and increasing over time.

These measures are aligned with the country’s National Solid Waste Policy and introduce stricter obligations for traceability, reporting and auditing across supply chains.

Reverse logistics systems must now demonstrate measurable performance, including:

• tracking packaging volumes placed on the market
• documenting collection and recycling rates
• submitting audited annual reports

For agrochemical packaging, which is already subject to specific regulations, the itinerant collection programme complements existing infrastructure and helps maintain compliance levels.

A regulatory analysis published in early 2026 highlights growing requirements for “traceability, classification, auditing and reporting” within Brazil’s reverse logistics systems.

Implications for packaging and agriculture sectors

The expansion of mobile collection points reflects broader trends in sustainable packaging and extended producer responsibility (EPR) across Latin America.

Brazil remains one of the largest global markets for crop protection products, with high volumes of pesticide use driving demand for robust packaging recovery systems.

For packaging manufacturers and supply chain stakeholders, the 2026 programme signals:

• continued enforcement of closed-loop systems for hazardous packaging
• increased scrutiny of compliance in rural and hard-to-reach areas
• integration of agricultural packaging into wider circular economy targets

The initiative also highlights the operational complexity of reverse logistics in large agricultural markets, where geography and infrastructure can limit access to fixed collection points.

By expanding itinerant collection, authorities aim to close these gaps while maintaining high recovery rates. The model may offer a reference for other regions developing pesticide packaging recycling and rural waste management systems.

As Brazil tightens national packaging regulations and scales collection infrastructure, reverse logistics is expected to remain a central pillar of its environmental and packaging policy framework.