The search for efficient and effective mechanisms in the use of environmental compensation to conduct important researches that influence decision-making and knowledge generation applied to the management needs of the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) was the biggest motivator for the establishment of a strategic partnership between ICMBio, the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPQ), and the National Council of State Foundations for Research Support (CONFAP).
One of the main results of this partnership was the release of CNPq No.13 of 2011 (first joint call between the institutions), in which R$ 3.48 million in funds from Environmental Compensation were made available to support scientific research projects in Conservation Units (CUs).
The partnership is configured as a successful experience in the use of environmental compensation, since it was able to promote the production of knowledge to subsidize the management and conservation of biodiversity and also to mitigate the impacts of an enterprise on biodiversity protected by potentially affected Conservation Units.
This partnership, which resulted in a good environmental management practice, included nine Conservation Units in the Caatinga Biome, which covers five states, and ten Conservation Units in the Atlantic Forest Biome, which covers eight states. According to the ICMBio and one of the authors of the summary of good practices, which was presented at the last Good Practice Seminar and the International Partnership Forum, Ivan Salzo, the ICMBio’s partnership with other agencies strengthened research for biodiversity management at the Institute.
“All in all, 10 research institutions were part of this partnership, as we understand that the advancement in scientific and technological knowledge is fundamental to strengthen the conservation of biodiversity. The high territorial, social and cultural complexity of Brazil and the numerous possibilities of using mega-biodiversity are associated with pressures, which may be diffuse or punctual, and the link between environmental management, research and technological development requires a interdisciplinary approach that incorporates local and traditional knowledge alongside scientific knowledge and management,” explains Salzo.
Another aspect commented by Ivan regarding the motivation for the partnership refers to the importance in relation to the development of research necessary for the management of the Conservation Units and the buffer zones recognized by Law 9.985 of 2000. In addition, he points out that ICMBio’s specifications and administrative constraints regarding the application of resources for the work often make it difficult to carry out important scientific research to support the management of the Conservation Units and the conservation of biodiversity.
Ivan also points out that good practice has broadened and strengthened the institute’s involvement with other partners.
Source: ICMBio