Sebrae Champions Sustainable Business Models and Ancestral Knowledge at COP30

At COP30 in Belém, Sebrae spearheaded significant discussions and initiatives promoting sustainable business practices, focusing on circularity, decarbonization, and inclusion. On November 14, 2023, Sebrae hosted panels featuring major brands like Lojas Renner, Grupo Boticário, and BRK Ambiental that are pioneering environmental sustainability in their operations. For example, Mariana Scheffer Cavanha of Grupo Boticário highlighted advancements in recycled packaging and green plastics made from sugarcane. Eduardo Ferlauto of Lojas Renner noted that 80% of their products now have sustainable attributes, with efforts to reduce water consumption in denim production. Carlos Almino Melo from BRK Ambiental discussed transforming water treatment sludge into fertilizers, emphasizing the importance of conscious consumption (Source 144325).

Sebrae also launched four strategic initiatives aimed at supporting micro and small enterprises in reducing emissions and fostering sustainable production chains. These include the "Corporate Connection Journey" to bridge large and small businesses, the "Encadear 2026 Forum" for dialogue on supply chain sustainability, a pilot "Decarbonization Journey" for emission reduction among small businesses, and the "Local Iconography Book Project" which highlights local knowledge and bioeconomy. Their 400 m² stand at COP30 offered an immersive space with cultural activities, entrepreneurial presentations, and a collaborative bioeconomy store, running through November 21 (Source 144325).

Parallel to these efforts, the integration of ancestral knowledge from indigenous and African cultures is gaining prominence as a foundation for innovative and sustainable business management. Researchers like Lua Couto emphasize that ancestral wisdom is dynamic, continuously updated knowledge that fosters interdependence and circularity. Talita Azevedo speaks to the concept of epistemic justice, underscoring the need to recognize marginalized traditional wisdom as legitimate innovation technology. Businesses such as Decathlon and Natura actively incorporate ancestral principles into their sustainable practices, including circular economy strategies and partnerships with local communities. This intersection of ancestral knowledge and modern sustainable business models is seen as critical for addressing climate change and social inequalities (Source 144332).

By championing both cutting-edge industry practices and the revitalization of ancestral knowledge, Sebrae positions Brazilian businesses—both large and small—as key players in the global movement towards a low-carbon, inclusive economy. This dual approach at COP30 highlights the potential for regenerative innovation that respects cultural heritage while advancing environmental goals.