The Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) recently released data showing there was a huge expansion of planted forests in Mato Grosso do Sul over the past decade. In 2006 the state had 121,000 ha. of plantations but this jumped to 1.1 million ha. after 10 years.
According to IBGE, there are 91 million ha. of natural forests for conservation. Eucalyptus accounts for most of the planted area
In 2007 the State Government, in partnership with the Brazilian Micro and Small Businesses Support Service (SEBRAE), undertook a study of soil conditions, climate, relief, availability of water resources and workforce which was the foundation of the State’s plantation plan. SEBRAE noted that planted forests, if properly managed, bring many benefits and they reduce the pressure on natural forests.
Strengthen the forestry sector
In the first week of November the Timber Industry Union of Northern Mato Grosso State (Sindusmad) arranged a meeting of timber producers in the municipality of Itaúba.
The objective was to bring together, integrate and strengthen the forestry sector of the municipality.
At the meeting the Center for Timber Producers and Exporters of Mato Grosso State (CIPEM) presented information on technical and legal requirements in the timber sector. One of the goals of Sindusmad is to promote and integrate forest-based industries and attract new members.
The municipalities that participated in the meeting recognised the importance of the sector for their economic development and committed to reduce bureaucracy and review legal procedures and environmental and tax laws.
The forest-based sector in the state employs around 100,000 people and contributes more than R$100 million in annual taxes to the state.
CIPEM welcomed the partnership with Sindusmad as fundamental to strengthening the interests of the forestbased sector.