NATURE CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: POSSIBILITIES FOR OVERCOMING ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES IN RURAL TERRITORIES IN THE STATE OF RIO DE JANEIRO

Abstract

Based on reflections related to the Brazilian commitment to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the challenges involved in reconciling nature conservation, water bodies protection, and sustainable rural production, this article aims to present alternatives to overcome the apparent contradiction between regional development in rural territories and the maintenance of forested areas that produce water. Focused on the North of Rio de Janeiro State, the study applied documentary research and participation in Watershed Committees meetings and in debate forums composed of agroforesters, managers and owners of Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) as methodological strategy. It was found that difficulties related to financial sustainability, restrictions on land use in Conservation Units and their surroundings, and in accessing external funding for unconventional agricultural practices act as obstacles to the agroecological transition. It is concluded that it is necessary to intensify institutional mechanisms that promote regenerative development and Sustainability, as well as to regulate existing public policies to foster agroecology at the federal and state levels, strengthening existing networks and creating new agro-sustainable networks that include the participation of Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs), family farmers, and agroforesters.