Projection of wind turbines waste in Brazil by 2050 and challenges for the circular economy

Bibliographic Data

ID21711099
AuthorsAnanda Letícia Martins D’Ávila (0009-0006-2804-3629, Universidade do Estado do Pará), Altem Nascimento Pontes (0000-0002-9001-4603, Universidade do Estado do Pará)
Year2026
Volume29
Publication date2026-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAmbiente & sociedade (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1414-753X • E-ISSN: 1809-4422
PublisherFapUNIFESP (SciELO) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1590/1809-4422asoc01591vu29l29oa
OpenAlexW7167502593
SCIELO_PIDS1414-753X2026000100615
LanguageEN
References cited36

Brazil stands out for its predominantly renewable energy matrix, in which wind power emerges as an essential source, representing the second-largest contribution to the national energy mix. This study evaluated the sustainability and challenges of the circular economy in the Brazilian wind sector by projecting wind turbine waste through 2050. Using a statistical approach, the study analyzed installed capacities, the geographical distribution of wind farms, and the potential for waste generation. The results indicate growth in wind energy generation capacity, with an estimated 6.25 million tons (Mt) of waste by 2050, mainly concentrated in the Northeast region. Although the circular economy is recognized as a strategy to mitigate these impacts, high costs, technological barriers, lack of infrastructure for reverse logistics, and the absence of specific legislation and regulations are obstacles to full circularity. The study highlights the urgent need for effective planning to ensure sustainable waste management in the wind energy sector

Circular economy · Legislation · Renewable energy · Sustainability · Sustainable development · Turbine · Wind power · Municipal Solid Waste Management · Photovoltaic Systems and Sustainability · Sustainable Supply Chain Management

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