The fire records recorded in 2024 in Brazil’s Conservation Units go far beyond an environmental disaster. They have direct and profound economic implications, in addition to calling into question efforts for a sustainable development model in the country. According to data from and I, more than 2.35 million hectares were devastated by the flames, an area that exceeds the size of Israel. The environmental cost of these losses is evident: destroyed biodiversity, massive greenhouse gas emissions and impacts on the hydrological cycle. However, what often goes unnoticed is the economic impact of this collapse. The destruction of protected areas directly affects sectors such as tourism, sustainable agricultural production and even public health, with an increase in respiratory diseases due to smoke.
Ecological tourism, which depends on the integrity of national parks and nature reserves, is an emblematic example. According to ICMBio, federal parks alone generate millions of reais annually, generating jobs and promoting local economies. With fire, these areas become unviable for visiting, which implies loss of income for entire communities and municipalities. In agriculture, the impact is twofold. On the one hand, areas close to UCs often affect rural properties, destroying pastures and crops. On the other hand, they compromise the potential of agroforestry systems, which are based on the harmonious coexistence between agricultural production and environmental conservation. This loss is an obstacle to the transition to more sustainable and resilient practices.
Furthermore, greenhouse gas emissions associated with fires impose high costs. Brazil, as a signatory to the , has committed to reducing its emissions. However, forest fires increase deforestation and, consequently, make it difficult to meet climate goals, which can lead to sanctions and loss of international funding for sustainable initiatives. This scenario highlights the urgency of aligning public fire prevention policies with broader economic strategies. Measures such as strengthening integrated fire management, announced by the federal government, are important steps, but they need to be accompanied by financial incentives for sustainable practices.
Investing in the conservation of protected areas is not just an environmental issue; It’s a smart economic strategy. Studies show that every real invested in preventing and protecting forests can generate multiplied returns in reducing damage and encouraging sustainable economic activities. Finally, society needs to recognize the invisible cost of environmental destruction. The economic impact of fires affects everyone, and solutions require collaboration between governments, companies and citizens. Sustainability is, above all, a collective commitment to the present and the future.
