Environmental conservation in Brazil: a critical review of its institutionalization

Abstract

This paper presents key elements of the configuration of the Brazilian environmental legal framework that is the result of a long process, which began especially at the beginning of the twentieth century, and from the start reflected the interests of different social agents. It discusses the definition of the Forest Code of 1934, 1965 and its revision in 2012. In addition, it deals with the creation of institutions linked to the preservation / conservation of the environment, such as the Brazilian Institute of Forestry Development, the Special Secretary for the Environment, and the Brazilian Institute for the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources. This article also analyzes key legislation, such as the National Environmental Policy, the resolutions of the National Environmental Council, the Law of Environmental Crimes and the National System of Conservation Units. The aim is to highlight the relevance of such laws and institutions, as well as the difficulties associated with achieving the objectives that led to their verification. We reiterate the need for social mobilization so that these laws can be effectively enforced and to avoid the setbacks that lead to increased environmental degradation and the importance of the state in environmental planning and management in Brazil.