ABSTRACT
A host of uncertainties surrounds the regulation of NTFPs in Brazil owing to the complex nature of the exploitation of these resources. On the one hand, the vast majority of these products are used for subsistence and traded in local markets (Shanley et al, 2006). Notwithstanding debate on the sustainability of the extractive economy (Homma, 1993), many traditional communities in Brazil depend on NTFPs for their livelihood. (For examples, see Diegues and Viana, 2000; Shanley et al, 2002; Schmidt et al, 2007; Sampaio et al, 2008.) On the other hand, the large-scale, unregulated commercial exploitation of some species has led to their inclusion in the official list of endangered species. This is the case, notably, for rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora) (May and Barata, 2004), xaxim (Dicksonia sellowiana), jaborandi (Pilocarpus spp.) (Pinheiro, 1997) and palm heart from the Atlantic forest (Euterpe edulis) (Reis et al, 2000), as well as several ornamental species and some medicinal plants. Creating a legal framework to regulate these diverse activities and products presents a challenge to Brazilian environmental managers and policy-makers. This case study presents a brief overview of some of the steps taken in recent years by the Brazilian government to address these challenges.
