Brazil faces challenges in conservation effectiveness despite regional successes

Data from the Ministry of Environment reveals that many conservation units in Brazil are functioning as ‘paper parks,’ failing to meet their biodiversity protection goals due to structural and management deficiencies. These areas lack essential components such as management plans, governing councils, buffer zones, land regularization, and adequate budgets or personnel. Effectiveness rates average 56.28% for federal units, 53.48% for state units, and 51.94% for municipal units.

Key obstacles include the absence of land regularization, where private lands remain within protected areas without expropriation or compensation, and the lack of management plans to regulate land use. These deficiencies hinder ecological tourism, scientific research, and environmental education. Furthermore, insufficient public resources limit inspection, field activities, and the construction of visitor infrastructure.

In contrast to these national systemic issues, the state of Paraná has been named Brazil’s most sustainable state for the fourth consecutive year by the Center for Public Leadership (CLP). The state achieved a maximum score in the State Competitiveness Ranking, driven by policies focused on expanding green areas, combating illegal deforestation, managing water resources, and protecting wildlife.