Rio de Janeiro is buzzing with energy as Brazil’s iconic Carnival preps for its grand kickoff on Feb. 28. But behind the glittering costumes and vibrant floats lies a growing problem: mountains of waste.
From Trash to Treasure 
A new pilot project is turning heads by repurposing imported materials—primarily sourced from China—to create sustainable costumes and decorations. Think recycled fabrics, biodegradable glitters, and modular props designed for reuse.
Why It Matters
Last year’s Carnival generated over 1,000 tons of waste, much of it single-use plastics. This year, organizers aim to slash that number by 40% using innovative Chinese-made eco-materials. ‘It’s a win for the planet and the party,’ says reporter Lucrecia Franco in Rio.
The Bigger Picture
This collaboration highlights how global partnerships can drive sustainability in unexpected ways. As Gen Z demands greener festivals, Carnival’s experiment could inspire events worldwide.
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Brazil’s Carnival tackles waste problem with Chinese materials
cgtn.com