Brazilian Biodiversity as a Source of Power and Sustainable Development: A Neglected Opportunity

Abstract

Six terrestrial biomes and a huge coastline make Brazil one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. However, the potential of Brazilian biodiversity as a valuable and sustainable source of wealth and development is still neglected. In order to reverse this scenario, the country needs to recognize and assume the power of its biodiversity, focusing on (I) industry, science and technology, (II) biological conservation and maintenance of ecosystem services, considering reverberations on agriculture and public health, and (III) ecotourism, conservation and sustainable development of local populations. The joint action of the Brazilian population and scientific community is needed to achieve these goals, which must be translated into the election of politicians committed to sustainable development and an increase in research and technology based on Brazilian biodiversity. Additional reasons for preserving Brazilian biodiversity (e.g., intrinsic, cultural, and ethical values) are also addressed in this article. Finally, we argue that Brazil should recover its global leadership on the environmental agenda and assume its biological diversity as a source of Soft Power, as well as develop its neglected capacity in the field of the sustainable bio-based economy (bioeconomy). In brief, Brazil needs to recognize and embrace the power of its biodiversity.