Biodiversity conservation In Mozambique and Brazil

Abstract

This text is a comparative study of biodiversity conservation practices and policies in Mozambique and Brazil. After a brief discussion of the concept of biodiversity and a general panorama of biodiversity in Mozambique, the author presents a detailed study of the Special Reserve of Maputo in Mozambique. It stresses the specific difficulties faced by conservation in a post war period and the problems to implement objectives, like those of a sustainable development and a participation of local communities, other than the direct protection of elephants which was the main reason for the creation of that reserve. Then, there is a rapid presentation of biodiversity in Brazil, particularly in the State of Ceara where are located the Ecological Station of Aiuba and the Area of Environmental Protection of Baturite which are described. Finally, the author concludes by stressing the importance of the plain participation of local populations and the recognition of their knowledge by the authorities of conservation areas to ensure a real conservation of biodiversity and fully meet the necessities of local dwellers, specially in a country like Brazil where conservation areas are already numerous.