The demarcation of permanent preservation areas along rivers

Abstract

Through the analysis of the new Brazilian Forest Code (Law 4,771/65) legislative reform, this paper shows the evolution of legal protection to the riparian system (marginal strips), defined as vegetation strings along rivers and other water bodies, which vary according to the water body width. The demarcation of permanent preservation areas along rivers is a complex process which has led to doubts and conflicts. Riparian systems are spaces aimed at the agricultural expansion and, thus, they’re under pressure. The analysis showed that the limitation posed by the new rule agrees with the principle of reasonableness. The new Brazilian Forest Code review, which is currently included in the National Congress agenda, will be able to positively contribute to achieve the possible and desired balance between respect to the natural environment and expansion of land uses.

Keywords

• Environmental law
• Land use
• Riparian zones