This study examines the Buckets Revolution, an urban agroecological initiative in the Chico Mendes favela, which arose to address critical socio-ecological challenges, including waste management and food insecurity. By applying the socio-ecological justice model, with a decolonial and feminist intersectional lens, the research explores the movement’s emergence and its ongoing efforts to address intertwined social and ecological injustices.

Through bibliographical research, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews, the study highlights how the Buckets Revolution has effectively tackled organic waste management and strengthened food security, promoting socio-ecological justice within the community. The findings underscore the significance of understanding the interconnections between social and ecological issues, integrating dimensions of justice, and prioritizing community perspectives when designing urban environmental policies. This case study serves as a model for achieving both social equity and ecological sustainability in vulnerable urban settings.