Feb 23 – Strengthening and Implementing Public Participation in Brazil

Syracuse EFC is providing support to EPA’s Office of International and Tribal Affairs to strengthen and implement public participation in environmental decision making and other activities conducted in Brazil.

Syracuse EFC is providing technical assistance on participation building for the community-based solid waste management project, ReciclAção, in the community of Prazeres in Rio de Janeiro. The ReciclAção project is designed to recycle a large portion of its solid wastes and to earn money from the sale of recyclables to fund environmental risk reductions and community improvements, including public participation and environmental education.

Syracuse EFC Executive Director Mark Lichtenstein met with residents of Prazeres in late February to learn more about public perceptions and public engagement in ReciclAção. Syracuse EFC will work with partners in the community to support recycling infrastructure and improve recycling rates among residents.