Brazil targets restoration of 163,000 km² of degraded land

Brazil faces the ambitious goal of restoring 163,000 square kilometers of degraded land following commitments made at COP17. This target aims to recover continuous landscapes to preserve biodiversity, ensure ecosystem services, and reduce carbon emissions. Key priority areas include corridors between biomes, riverbanks, and water recharge zones.

Effective restoration strategies involve a combination of assisted natural regeneration, the planting of native species, and agroforestry systems. Success depends on technical planning regarding ecological succession and post-planting management.

Crucially, the process requires the active participation of local communities. Integrating traditional knowledge and respecting territorial rights are considered essential for transforming technical projects into lasting social and environmental changes. Including affected populations in the design, execution, and monitoring of these efforts is seen as a strategic necessity to ensure higher seedling survival rates and long-term project viability.