Companies in Brazil and around the world are facing a scenario where their operations will be increasingly monitored, with a focus on standards and regulations regarding pollutants and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This topic, which previously received little attention, is now high on the corporate agenda, driven by global targets and tougher penalties for those who break the rules.
According to the Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Removals Estimation System (SEEG), Brazil emitted 2.2 billion tons of GHG in 2019, of which the energy sector accounted for 19% of emissions. Globally, this industry accounts for around 21% of global CO₂ emissions, according to the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change), reinforcing the sector’s relevance in achieving climate goals.
The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, established a framework for international cooperation in the fight against climate change and set a goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. To achieve this objective, signatory countries, including Brazil, committed to adopting policies and measures to reduce emissions.
The tightening of environmental regulations in Brazil, with the imposition of fines that can reach millions of reais domestically and billions of reais abroad, is one of the direct results of this movement. According to Article 60 of the Environmental Crimes Law (Law No. 9,605/98), simply operating an enterprise or activity that may pollute the environment without obtaining an environmental license can lead to arrest and fines. In more serious cases, repeated violations of regulations can result in an embargo on activities, closure of the plant, and criminal liability for directors and executives.
To reduce these risks, the industry has sought technological solutions to reduce, manage and monitor emissions. Technologies to capture contaminants and tools to automate data collection and identify improvements in production processes are considered essential to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
An example of this type of solution is that provided by GLR Tech, which has developed filters that can help companies achieve compliance, reduce the risk of penalties, and contribute to sustainability. The technology works by “scrubbing” gases such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), particulate matter, and heavy metals produced by combustion.
By capturing NOx and SO₂, this technology reduces the formation of acid rain, a phenomenon that is harmful to soils, oceans, rivers, and lakes. The effectiveness of this solution was internationally recognized when GLR Tech won second place at the BRICS Circular Economy Awards out of more than 400 innovative companies.
“This filter, which can be applied both to industrial smokestacks and vehicles such as ships, locomotives, trucks and buses, represents progress in the search for solutions to reduce pollutants and is consistent with the global discussion on industrial decarbonization,” said Felipe Berman, CEO of GLR Tech.
Environmental regulatory experts have warned that the transition to a low-carbon economy requires concrete action from industry. Failure to comply with standards and underinvestment in clean technology can result in significant financial and reputational losses. On the other hand, pursuing legal compliance can not only open the door to new business opportunities and access to international markets, but also position companies as leaders in environmental responsibility.
“Introducing sustainable practices is no longer just an image issue, but a legal and existential requirement in global markets. GLR Tech’s mission is to provide technology that helps companies meet standards, reduce costs and contribute to a cleaner, more profitable and sustainable future.”
About The Author
