Sustainability advances in the tobacco sector in Southern Brazil

The tobacco sector has stood out for its environmental sustainability initiatives implemented in the tobacco-producing regions of southern Brazil. According to the Interstate Tobacco Industry Union (SindiTabaco), there are already 60 ongoing projects aimed at preserving forests, water and soil, reflecting the commitment of member companies to responsible practices.

Among the highlights is the high level of forest coverage: a survey by Cepa/UFRGS indicates that 133 tobacco-producing properties in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and Paraná have an average area covered by forests of 31,1%, of which 19,8% is native forest and 11,3% is cultivated energy forests, mainly with eucalyptus. The use of exotic species for firewood production has been encouraged since the 1970s and contributes to the preservation of native vegetation.

The sector is also investing in innovation. In partnership with the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), the “Actions for Forest Sustainability” project seeks to improve the management of fast-growing species, reconciling productivity with environmental preservation.

In terms of soil care, conservation practices have been gaining momentum through the Integrated Tobacco Production System (SIPT). Currently, 74% of producers apply techniques such as planting on ridges with plant cover. In 2025, the “Protected Soil” project was launched, carried out with Embrapa, to diagnose properties, propose interventions and monitor soil conservation indicators.

Another pillar of sustainable actions is crop diversification. The program, which began in 1985 and is now called “Tobacco is Agro: Diversification of Properties,” encourages crop rotation, grain cultivation, animal grazing, and the planting of forest species. The initiative aims to strengthen food security, increase producers’ income, and reduce the use of chemical inputs on crops.

“The tobacco sector shows that it is possible to reconcile production, sustainability and income generation in the countryside”, summarizes Valmor Thesing, president of SindiTabaco.