Virada Cultural 2026: Recycling Initiative Creates Income for São Paulo's Catadores
At São Paulo's Virada Cultural 2026, a recycling initiative employs 165 catadores, turning waste collection into a vital source of income amid the festival's increased waste generation.
- • The Recycling Center at Virada Cultural 2026 aims to collect over 4 tons of recyclable materials during the event.
- • 165 catadores work at the center, earning R$ 250 per day plus benefits.
- • The initiative is a partnership between Ancat, Rede Cata Sampa Institute, Loga, and São Paulo City Hall.
- • The program supports both environmental sustainability and income generation for local workers amid the festival’s influx of 4.8 million visitors.
Key details
During the vibrant Virada Cultural 2026 festival in São Paulo, a dedicated Recycling Center at Largo Paissandu has become a significant source of income for local catadores, or waste collectors. The center aims to collect over 4 tons of recyclable materials over the 24-hour event, which attracts an estimated 4.8 million visitors, generating a substantial increase in waste volume.
A total of 165 catadores are employed at the Recycling Center, each earning R$ 250 per day along with meals and essential gear to assist in sorting recyclables. This initiative is a collaboration between the National Association of Recyclable Material Collectors (Ancat), the Rede Cata Sampa Institute, Loga, and support from the São Paulo City Hall.
Veteran catador Rui Coelho Filho, who has 35 years of experience in recycling, highlighted the importance of the event for boosting income and environmental efforts. New catador Maria Dulcineia Silva shared her satisfaction with reaching her collection goals early in the festival. This program not only facilitates an important environmentally sustainable practice during the bustling cultural event but also empowers local workers economically.
By integrating waste collection into the festival’s operations, São Paulo illustrates a model of how large events can contribute to social and environmental objectives simultaneously, maximizing benefits for both the city and its residents.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
