The circular economy is one of the main responses to the climate and waste crises we are currently facing. In this context, Realixo aims to be an innovative company committed to transforming the way people and companies deal with their waste, offering practical and accessible solutions for both individuals and legal entities. With services ranging from waste collection to environmental education, Realixo aims to become the “Uber of the Circular Economy” — a model that connects customers to scalable logistics and technological solutions, focusing on positive socio-environmental impact. The startup was one of the 5 selected as a finalist in the ABES Pitch Challenge 2024.
Realixo's business model
“Realixo was born with the mission of facilitating waste management, promoting sustainable and accessible practices for everyone. The monthly subscription model allows homes and businesses to send recyclable and organic waste to appropriate destinations, contributing to recycling and composting,” explains Andrea M. Lehner, CEO and founder of Realixo.
The company also manages waste from events of various sizes, ensuring that each material is disposed of correctly. The organic waste collected is sent to partner urban gardens, where it is transformed into fertilizer through the composting process. This fertilizer is used to enrich the soil and capture carbon, promoting more sustainable agriculture. Recyclables are donated to waste picker cooperatives, generating income and a positive social impact.
Why does Realixo want to be the Uber of the Circular Economy?
Inspired by the model of platforms like Uber, Realixo is developing a technology that will connect customers with logistics operators to optimize waste collection and transportation. “This approach will allow the outsourcing of logistics, focusing attention on marketing and technology to scale the business more efficiently. The idea is to create an integrated system where individuals and companies can easily access collection services, directly contributing to a more sustainable world. This model has great potential for scalability. We have ambitious plans to expand to other Brazilian cities and, in the future, to international markets, such as India. Realixo is not just a waste management company. It is an impact business”, highlights Andrea.
Commitment to innovation and social impact
During events, the company prioritizes hiring low-income black women, offering above-average remuneration. In addition, Realixo participates in acceleration programs, such as Green Sampa, which help to consolidate its vision of a more sustainable and resilient future. The company also holds lectures and workshops, disseminating circular economy practices and raising awareness in society about the importance of proper waste disposal. This educational engagement is essential to create behavioral changes that can impact the environment in the long term.
The future of Realixo
Realixo’s next steps include the launch of its aforementioned digital platform, which promises to revolutionize the way waste management is carried out. “With a combination of technology, innovation and social impact, Realixo wants to transform the waste sector in Brazil and beyond. With the Realixo, the future of the circular economy is now”, concludes the executive.