Companies in the pet industry are investing in Amazon Raw Materials

Summary
The circular economy in the pet sector aims to protect the environment and invest in afforestation, which seeks to meet the growing demand for sustainable products.

By combining environmental protection with animal welfare, the circular economy is gaining more and more traction in the pet industry. Companies are developing sustainable products using the resources of the Amazon forest, while investing in reforestation and solutions to reduce the environmental impact of waste and packaging. The move represents a concerted effort to reduce waste and strengthen environmental practices in the pet sector – one of the fastest growing in the world.

A Euromonitor report predicts high growth in demand for sustainable products in the sector, particularly in Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% through 2026. Also, NielsenIQ identified 42% of pets. Product consumers prefer to buy formulas with sustainable ingredients, which shows the strength of the sustainability trend in this sector.

Gilberto Novaes, founder and CEO of Furest Pet, one of the pioneers in using Amazon products in animal care, highlights the importance of rethinking how these products are made. “The goal of these companies is to ensure that the entire life cycle has a positive impact on the environment. Raw materials from the forest are used, but already more than 173,000 seeds have been planted, around 50,000 trees have been created, and another 100,000 trees are being planted and returned to nature with reforestation projects. However, it is necessary to go beyond the basics to care for the planet and create a more truly sustainable brand,” says Novas.

To this end, companies are integrating natural resources, such as sustainably extracted oils and fibers from the Amazon, into pet products. These ingredients are biodegradable and sourced from suppliers who follow responsible practices.

Also, the manufacturing process involves strict control to reduce the use of plastic packaging, replacing it with biodegradable and recyclable options. People in the periphery of a factory are also of concern, hence the importance of income-generating schemes for people living in forests.

In the circular economy, the search for solutions goes beyond the product itself, and includes logistics and the full useful life of the goods supplied. “We're always looking for ways to reuse materials, such as closing the loop and turning waste into new pet supplies,” Novas details.

Another highlight is supporting companies' investment in recycling practices and conservation efforts. Many are committed to reforestation and carbon reduction projects, contributing to the preservation of deforested areas in the Amazon. For example, every product sold by Furest Pet turns into a planted tree, further reinforcing its commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Challenges and opportunities of circular economy

Although the advancement of the circular economy in the pet sector has brought great benefits, there are still challenges to be faced. One of them is the bureaucracy of obtaining certificates and eco-labels. This process involves a very high level of demand, with many changes required throughout the manufacturing and supply chain.

“Companies at the beginning of this journey have to make many changes, from raw material selection to waste treatment. However, even if these changes seem complex, they will have value in the future both in terms of environmental impact and market competitiveness”, says Gilberto Novas.

Implementing ecological practices may have a high initial cost, resulting in above-average final prices for products. However, companies are realizing that environmental and social returns overcome these barriers.

“Sustainability should be considered a long-term investment, not just an expense. This will help create a more aware market as more consumers understand the importance of choosing products that respect the environment,” concludes Novas.

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