Creating value in the Amazon through bioeconomics: the Pirarucu journey to the end consumer

An Amazonian fisherman lifts an immense pirarucu, a symbol of sustainable fishing in the region. Responsible management of this species is crucial for the preservation of aquatic ecosystems and the subsistence of local communities.

UG & Co. has vast expertise in developing projects linked to the Bioeconomy for brands in the Amazon. Our special look at the Bioeconomy allows us to create sustainable and innovative solutions. In the context of products associated with Pirarucu (Arapaima Gigas) fish, manufactured for the final public, our role goes beyond the development of packaging. We understand the entire process involved, from sustainable capture to delivery to the consumer.

Juruá Pescados, part of the Cocar & Co. product ecosystem, is responsible for manufacturing fish to the final consumer. We apply Design Thinking and System Thinking approaches to face the specific challenges of the Bioeconomy, ensuring integrated and sustainable solutions.

We mapped everything from fishing to the final consumer with the aim of understanding the journey

Context

Amazonas is the largest consumer of fish in Brazil, with an annual consumption of 14.0 kg per person. Fresh Tambaqui is the most consumed fish, also leading consumption in five other states and the Federal District. However, the commercialization of Pirarucu in the Amazon faces several challenges, such as complicated logistics and seasonality.

Juruá Pescados sells Pirarucu tracked and approved by the Origens Brasil project, guaranteeing the sustainability and quality of the product. At UG & Co., we use Design Thinking and System Thinking to develop innovative solutions, creating functional and attractive packaging for the end consumer.

Main Problems in Supplying Pirarucu

- Seasonality: Fish availability is highly seasonal.
- Logistics: Inadequate infrastructure and high transport costs.
- Illegal Fishing: Compromises the sustainability of stocks.
- Production Capacity: Limitations on the production of handlers.
- Quality and Standard: Maintain a uniform quality standard.
- Tracking and Certification: Need for efficient systems.
- Government Support: Insufficient for public incentive policies.
- Climatic Conditions: Affect fishing and transport.

Bioeconomy Projections

The global bioeconomy is growing, predicted to generate billions in revenue in the coming years. In the Amazon, this trend is especially relevant, as the region has enormous biological and cultural potential that can be explored in a sustainable way. Investing in the Amazon bioeconomy can promote regional economic development and environmental conservation.

Our view of the ecosystem

Product line developed by UG for Juruá Pescados: special cuts of Tambaqui, Pirarucu and Aruanã, prepared with attention to sustainability and quality.

Developing products from inputs from the Amazon presents numerous challenges. At UG & Co., our commitment is to understand the entire value chain of our customers’ products, from the search for inputs to delivery to the final consumer. This deep understanding sets us apart, allowing us to design consumer experiences that add value and promote sustainability. Our mission is to create solutions that respect and value the rich biodiversity and culture of the Amazon.