The Directorate of Environmental Licensing (Dilic) of the Ibama (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) recently hosted a seminar titled “Environmental Gains through Licensing”. The event aimed to shed light on the positive outcomes achieved through environmental conditions and programs mandated by the Federal Environmental Licensing (LAF).
Socioenvironmental Impact: A Multifaceted Approach
Over the years, the Dilic has championed socioenvironmental actions during the implementation of potentially polluting projects:
- Usina Termelétrica Porto de Itaqui (Maranhão):
- In 2008, the Dilic facilitated the relocation of families from an area designated for the Porto de Itaqui Thermoelectric Plant. The diagnostic assessment revealed that 35 families inhabited the site, with 23 relying on scavenging in an irregular landfill while others engaged in agriculture.
- The solution? The affected community was empowered to choose among several plots of land offered by the project developer. Subsequently, 100 furnished masonry houses were constructed for their habitation.
- Additionally, community members received housing assistance and compensation. The new neighborhood even boasts amenities like a police base, a school accommodating 600 students, and a Basic Health Unit.
- Usina Hidrelétrica (UHE) de Jirau (Rondônia):
- From September 2013 to December 2023, the UHE Jirau project allocated approximately R$ 721 million as financial compensation to public entities.
- The creation of an Environmental Education Program led to the establishment of two institutions:
- One focused on supporting local family farmers and rural producers around the reservoir.
- Another dedicated to serving the urban community.
- Educational initiatives related to environmental awareness were carried out in collaboration with local schools.
Claudia Jeanne Barros, the acting director of Dilic, emphasized that establishing environmental measures takes time. Saying “no” to certain project aspects—such as a specific route, vegetation clearance, or an unchecked bridge—doesn’t end the conversation. Instead, it opens the door to collaborative problem-solving.
Rodrigo Agostinho, President of Ibama, highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the structure of the Dilic. Growth Acceleration Program is currently under discussion at the highest levels of government.
The seminar, which featured insights from other Ibama directors, licensing professionals, and project representatives, can be viewed in its entirety on the Ibama YouTube channel.
