River Sources, Permanent Preservation Areas and Forest Renewal: Degradation and Conservation in Brazil

Abstract

The occupational process of the entire Brazilian territory was characterized by a complete lack of planning and by the destruction of natural resources. Native forests were fragmented throughout Brazil´s history, giving way to agriculture. Forest exploitation, mining, the construction of water reservoirs for the supply of water or energy, the expansion of urban areas and industrial pollution also contributed towards the destruction of streams and rivers. Current analysis is a review of the literature on the destruction of forest and permanent preservation areas, coupled to the impacts on the environment and the importance of the preservation and the recovery of the areas. Results show that public policies, NGOs and teaching institutions are required for protection, recovery and restoration planning of these areas. The rational use of forests and woods near streams should be enhanced to warrant soil, water and air quality, promoting a minimum of life quality for the current generation and for future ones.