Recategorization of conservation units: case study Nascentes da Serra do Cachimbo Biological Reserve - PA state, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the constitutionality, as well as the pros and cons of a possible recategorization of the Nascentes da Serra do Cachimbo Biological Reserve, located in the state of Pará state, in order to meet the criteria of sustainable development: economically viable, environmentally suitable and socially just. It was verified that it is possible to change the category of an Integral Protection Conservation Unit, provided that it is enacted by Law and compatible with the purposes from article 225 of the Federal Constitution. The categories to be created by Bills No. 258/2009 and 4/2017 are compatible with the soil use and occupation; given this the damages brought with the consolidation of the new Conservation Units would be minimal when compared with the sustainable development that would be feasible in the region. However, only technical studies can confirm whether the area really fits into the new categories, which would guarantee adequacy in the ways of nature conservation.

Keywords:
Category change; Biological Reserve; National System of Nature Conservation Units