Are Brazil deforesters avoiding detection? Reply to Richards et al. 2016

Abstract

The paper “Are Brazil deforesters avoiding detection?” recently published in Conservation Letters by Richards et al. 2016 has critical shortcomings and conclusions based on biased and not very robust analyses. Here, we provide clarifications to some of the most critical points regarding the monitoring of land use changes in the Brazilian Amazon and related greenhouse emissions. Such clarifications are relevant to the readers of Conservation Letters and to a broader audience that rely on sound and robust science for a better management of environmental issues.