Mônica Moura

Brazilian environmental leader transforming urban waste into economic opportunities

Mônica Moura's Environmental Revolution

Mônica Moura (born 1965) is a Brazilian social entrepreneur who founded Catarse in 2010, Latin America's largest crowdfunding platform for social and environmental projects. Her earlier work with the Terra Plana Institute pioneered urban recycling networks that turned Rio's waste into economic gold.

Recycling Revolution

In the 1990s, Moura developed the 'Recicla Rio' initiative which created 150+ cooperatives processing 300 tons of recyclables daily. This system provided dignified work for 3,000+ waste pickers while diverting 60% of Rio's landfill waste. Her model was adopted by São Paulo and Buenos Aires, creating a regional movement.

Crowdfunding Innovation

Catarse has raised over US$100 million for projects like the Amazon Rainforest Conservation and favela-based education programs. Moura's platform features unique features like 'Flexible Funding' allowing projects to keep raised amounts regardless of funding goals. This approach has supported 12,000+ initiatives since 2010.

Social Impact Metrics

Her cooperatives reduced waste-related health issues by 40% in Rio's favelas while increasing recyclers' income 300%. Catarse's projects have directly impacted 2.5 million people, with 60% led by women. Moura's work was honored with the Schwab Foundation Award (2016) and Ashoka Fellowship.

Global Influence

Moura's 'Waste as Wealth' concept inspired similar programs in Jakarta and Nairobi. Her 2018 TED Talk Waste into Wealth has 2.3 million views. Current initiatives include blockchain-based recycling tracking systems and renewable energy cooperatives in Brazil's semi-arid regions.