Environmental Responsibility The sustained growth of our country and the planet depends on the preservation of the environment. COSAN, through activities, such as reforestation, waste recycling and industrial effluents treatment, shows its concern with combining the economic growth and improvement of community’s life quality. Thus, in order to be loyal to its environmental preservation principle, COSAN does not measure efforts therefor. Reflorestation COSAN currently cares for approximately 660 hectares of native forest and riparian vegetation, as well as several rivers and streams. The Group has planted 1.1 million seedlings to date and invested close to R$ 12.5 million between 2004 and 2006. River Preservation COSAN promotes fish replenishment in rivers, lakes and streamlets composing its area. In the industrial area, the water used in the process is treated and returned to the environment. Industrial waste is recycled and used in the recovery of soil vital properties. A vinasse pipeline allows a proper re-utilization of such residues. Air preservation Among such actions, COSAN adopts the practice of “aceiros” (strip of land) to avoid fire propagation. At industry, pipeline filters in boilers chimneys reduce the emission of polluting gases and particular substances flowing into the atmosphere. This evidences that COSAN is a real example that economic growth and preservation of nature may and should live together in perfect harmony. Selective Waste CollectionCOSAN separates materials that can be recycled, such as paper, glass, plastic and metal. The purpose of this procedure, known as Selective Waste Collection, is to reduce soil and water pollution, which can be caused by the irregular build-up of garbage, as well as extending the useful life of landfills. All this goes to show that COSAN is proof that economic growth and nature conservation can and should coexist in perfect harmony.