Conservation and Sustainability in Brazil

Verdant rainforests, rhythm-filled metropolitan areas, and stretches of palm-fringed beaches make up the vibrant heart of Brazil. From the tuneful beat of samba in the streets to the serene majesty of the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil captivates the soul and senses.

Home to the Amazon Rainforest, the Pantanal Wetlands, and the Atlantic Forest, Brazil’s environmental efforts are crucial not only for its own ecological health but also for the planet’s well-being.

One of the wildest places on earth, the Amazon jungle covers approximately 42% of Brazil and spans deep into neighbouring countries. Storing 150 billion metric tons of carbon, the forest is critical for sustaining life.

Brazil's conservation and sustainability efforts reflect its status as one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with initiatives ranging from government policies to meaningful grassroots and community movements.

Brazil’s formal conservation efforts began in the early 20th century, where wildlife-dense areas became protected under the title of national parks. The Brazilian Rainforest Code was then created to help control deforestation and protect the forest’s natural resources through mandating landowners in the Amazon to maintain a percentage of their property under native vegetation.

In the 1970s, concerns about economic growth, environmental pollution, and social justice first began in tourism. Increased domestic and international pressure to protect Brazil’s ecosystems, especially the Amazon, led to increased conservation efforts and initiatives in the late 20th century.

In 1996, organisations such as the Amazon Conservation Team and the Rainforest Trust were created with the mission of partnering with indigenous and local communities to protect the Amazon Rainforest. WWF officially opened in Brazil the same year to run various projects in partnership with regional NGOs, universities, and government agencies.

Brazil is home to many of Latin America’s most fascinating species, estimated to make up 15 - 20% of the world’s biodiversity, with more than 1,600 bird species; 1,500 fish species; and 600 mammal species.

Wildlife conservation in Brazil is ongoing as the importance of its diverse wildlife and ecosystems is realised. Brazil has various biodiversity hotspots, ranging from the famed Amazon Rainforest area and the Pantanal Wetlands to the Atlantic Forest, Cerrado Savanna, and marine regions surrounding the country.

Almost 4,000 endangered animals live in Brazil’s rainforests, some of which include the majestic jaguar, the Amazon River dolphin, giant otters, and the Uakari monkeys. These species play an integral role in the ecosystem, contributing to a delicate balance not only in the Amazon but also the world.

The Pantanal Wetlands is the world’s largest tropical wetlands, spanning more than 42 million acres across three countries, and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the continent. Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia have joined forces to create the Trinational Initiative for the Integrated and Sustainable Development of the Pantanal to conserve and sustainably develop the wetland.

Despite its progress, Brazil still faces many challenges. Its greatest challenge continues to be navigating the complex interplay between environmental priorities and economic benefits and growth. The greatest threat to the wildlife and biodiversity in Brazil is habitat destruction through cattle farming, logging, and mining. Climate change also plays a significant role, causing detrimental impact on ecosystems and an increase of wildfires that tear through the landscape.

Ecotourism in Brazil is becoming increasingly important to protect the abundance of wildlife and pristine nature in the country, yet tourism remains a small contributor to the country’s GDP.

However, Brazil’s sustainable tourism is on the rise, and offers an opportunity for economic gain while preserving the natural resources and rich biodiversity within the country.

With its offer of unique experiences, incredible biodiversity, and vibrant culture, Brazil is the perfect destination for ecotourism. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves into one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, ranging from snorkelling amongst turtles in pristine waters in Fernando de Noronha to canoeing down the Amazon River in search of white fur sloths and spectacular birdlife.

There are more and more ecolodges appearing in Brazil, such as the Caiman Ecological Refuge, who use ecotourism to support the work of conservationists. This is a popular model for funding wildlife conservation in Brazil.

Niarra Travel’s commitment is to transform the typical tourist visit into a meaningful travel experience that supports and uplifts local communities and ecosystems.

On tours such as Rewilding Brazil, we work with lodges who are working to restore and protect the local ecosystems. During these journeys, you’ll have the opportunity to discover more about their conservation efforts and the animals they work so hard to protect.

If you are interested in sustainable travel to Brazil that helps to fund conservation and communities get in touch with our team on u (UK), +1 (833) 215 9353 (US) or at explore@niarratravel.com and start designing your perfect conservation vacation today.