C40 Cities Executive Director Mark Watts has congratulated the City of Fortaleza for winning the prestigious WRI Ross Center Prize for Cities for its Re-Ciclo project.
In Fortaleza, many waste pickers had previously worked informally, using hand-pulled carts to collect recyclables, earning very little and facing social stigma. To address these challenges, the city launched Re-Ciclo, an initiative aimed at improving recycling rates and reducing social inequality by supporting informal waste pickers.
Through the project, Fortaleza improved working conditions, introduced electric transport, and formally integrated waste-picking into the city’s recycling programme.
Re-Ciclo demonstrates how education, investment, and better working conditions can transform public attitudes towards recycling, creating a more sustainable and inclusive city.
C40 Executive Director, Mark Watts, said: “Huge congratulations to Fortaleza for securing this prestigious award. Mayor Sarto’s leadership is a first-class example of innovative city climate action that improves equity and quality of life for people. This recognition is truly deserved, and I look forward to seeing the lasting impact of this trailblazing project.”