Understanding the effects of roads on land use change in the Brazilian Amazon is crucial in developing policies to combat forest destruction. Here we examine one relevant case study: the proposal to pave BR-319. Specifically, we analyze land within 50 km on either side of BR-319 using Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) to identify areas particularly vulnerable to deforestation.
The potential role of responsible forestry in REDD
The potential role of responsible forestry in REDD
If properly designed, REDD could tip the balance towards responsible, certified logging, thus squeezing out illegal operations. Responsible forestry should be coupled with measures to reduce the flow and irresponsibly harvested timber into consumer markets.