Extractive reserve

Extractive Reserve is a type of conservation unit found predominantly in Brazil, designed to support both the livelihoods of local communities and the conservation of biodiversity. These reserves allow for the sustainable extraction of natural resources, such as rubber, nuts, and fruits, by traditional populations, while ensuring the protection of the ecosystem. The concept of extractive reserves emerged from the grassroots efforts of rubber tappers, notably Chico Mendes, to combat deforestation and land conflicts in the Amazon.

History

The idea of extractive reserves dates back to the 1980s, during a period of intense deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest. Chico Mendes, a rubber tapper and environmental activist, proposed the creation of these reserves as a way to protect both the livelihoods of local communities and the rainforest. The first extractive reserve, the Chico Mendes Extractive Reserve, was established in 1990, two years after Mendes' assassination.

Characteristics

Extractive reserves are characterized by their dual focus on environmental conservation and the socio-economic well-being of local communities. Residents of these areas engage in traditional forms of extraction that do not deplete the resources, ensuring the sustainability of the ecosystem. These reserves are typically managed through a combination of local community governance and oversight by environmental agencies.

Legal Framework

In Brazil, the legal framework for extractive reserves is provided by the National System of Conservation Units (SNUC), which defines different categories of protected areas, including extractive reserves. This framework outlines the objectives, management practices, and rights of the communities living within these reserves.

Challenges

Despite their successes, extractive reserves face several challenges, including illegal logging, mining, and land grabbing. Ensuring the sustainable management of natural resources, while also providing adequate economic opportunities for local communities, remains a complex issue.

Impact

Extractive reserves have been recognized for their role in conserving biodiversity and supporting traditional lifestyles. They serve as a model for integrating conservation and human livelihoods, demonstrating that it is possible to use natural resources in a sustainable manner.

See Also

• Sustainable development
• Community-based conservation
• Environmental governance
• Chico Mendes

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