Vanessa & Marcio
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Vanessa, along with her husband Márcio, exemplifies how individual actions can significantly impact local communities. Registered with Plastic Bank on September 13, 2021, Vanessa's first recorded transaction was on October 1, 2021. To date, she has recycled a total of 3,235 kg of plastic.
Residing in Itaguaí, Rio de Janeiro, they witnessed firsthand the pollution of a canal flowing into a river. Inspired by Vanessa's mother, who practiced recycling, they shifted their focus to recycling during the pandemic to ensure their family's income amid reduced fish sales.
Driven by Márcio's passion for fishing and frustration with ocean pollution, they began collecting plastic waste from a nearby mangrove and canal. Their collaboration with Dona Rosa, a branch owner of Sucatao de Itaguai, further supported their efforts as she helped collect recyclables from their home.
Additionally, Vanessa and Márcio are committed to educating other residents and fishermen on the importance of recycling and proper waste disposal, fostering positive environmental change in their community.