Brazil is the world’s most biodiverse country. This chapter reviews the current status and trends of Brazil’s biodiversity, as well as pressures stemming from a range of sources. It examines Brazil’s biodiversity policy and institutional framework, including its integrated strategy to combat deforestation. The chapter assesses progress in financing biodiversity conservation, mainstreaming biodiversity into sectoral policies and enhancing the knowledge base and economic valuation of Brazil’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

Brazil has massively expanded its network of protected areas. This chapter presents progress in extending the terrestrial and marine areas under environmental protection. It examines achievements and challenges related to the management of protected areas, including in terms of financial sustainability. The chapter describes the role of protected areas in improving the quality of life of traditional communities. Finally, it discusses the opportunities of opening protected areas to the public for tourism, recreation and environmental education, and for sustainable forest management.