Evolution of Public Policies and Local Innovation in Landscape Conservation in Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

This chapter reviews the evolution of state policies and institutions responsible for land use policy and conservation incentives to landowners in Rio de Janeiro, with emphasis on the areas involved in implementing agro-environmental programs. We refer to some of the efforts underway to create private patrimony reserves, biological corridors, and PES instruments based on water resource protection and sustainable land use practices. We discuss the impacts of those policy interventions on regional efforts to motivate landscape protection and restoration along with possible alternatives. The discussion is couched within the framework of national and global debates regarding participatory landscape management and poverty amelioration in developing countries.